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LATEST NEWS

Van Vuuren cops three week ban for McKenzie shot

Bulls prop Conrad van Vuuren has received a three week ban after a dangerous tackle on Chiefs fullback Damian McKenzie on Friday night.

Sergio Parisse's greatest victories

As Italian great Sergio Parisse becomes the first player to reach 100 test defeats, we revisit some of his greatest victories.

Chiefs suffer another injury blow

The Chiefs have been hit with more bad news after an injury to lock Mitchell Brown.

Australian Club Grades Week Five

Rob Seltzer grades the Australian clubs after week five of Super Rugby.

Rhys Webb's season is officially over and he may never play for Wales again

The Ospreys have confirmed that Rhys Webb's season is officially over.

World Rugby release statement as Belgium Spain controversy escalates

World Rugby have released a statement following the ugly scenes that marred the end of a Belgium Spain Rugby Europe Championship match in Brussels yesterday.

Six Nations XV of 2018

A Grand Slam for Ireland and a wooden spoon for Italy, despondency for England and promise for Scotland, glimpses from Wales and resilience from France. The 2018 Six Nations duly delivered some wonderful storylines.

Samoa knew they'd be facing Spain in RWC qualifier...over 2 weeks ago

The intrigue surrounding Spain's failure to automatically qualify for the Rugby World Cup is deepening, as an article written over two weeks ago suggested that Samoan Rugby knew they'd be facing Spain and not Romania in the playoff.

Reds triumph over Jaguares

For the first time in five years the Queensland Reds have secured three consecutive victories.

Squire faces sideline spell with broken thumb

The industrious All Black left his side's thrilling derby victory over the Crusaders just before halftime.

Jones threatens World Cup cull

After England’s third straight Six Nations loss Eddie Jones has warned his squad that some may not be playing when the 2019 World Cup rolls around.

Chiefs resolve and reserves tested early

The Chiefs have had their resolve tested early and often, with injury crisis forcing them to adapt as they enter a new era.

Waratahs bring Rebels back down to earth

The Melbourne Rebels suffered their first defeat of the season when they were hammered 27-51 by the Waratahs in Sydney on Sunday.

LIVE: Belgium versus Spain

Last Round in Rugby Europe Championship 2018 and last qualifier round for Rugby World Cup 2019. Spain will come to Brussels to grab its direct qualification for Japan 2019, while Belgium needs to secure its place for REC2019.

England's Six Nations post-mortem reveals multiple pathologies

Joe Schmidt’s men secured just the third Grand Slam in Ireland’s history on Saturday afternoon, St Patrick's Day, at Twickenham no less.
Could it have been any more perfect?

Shock in Europe: Spanish players turn on ref as Romania qualify for RWC2019

Romania have qualified for Rugby World Cup 2019 after a dramatic finale to the Rugby Europe Championship on Sunday.

While some have branded England's George Ford as a defensive liability, statistics suggest that it's his midfield partner Owen Farrell that might be one that needs a few post training tackling 'extras'.

Irish star makes fan's day with heartwarming gesture

Ireland flanker Peter O'Mahony gave his medal away to a big fan after helping Ireland secure their third Six Nations Grand Slam.

Steve Hansen rules out England coaching gig

Incumbent All Blacks head coach Steve Hansen s off contract with New Zealand Rugby at the end of 2019, and has not given a clear indication of where his coaching future lies.

Kiwis in Europe: Green Slam for Aki

The adopted Irishman and Connacht midfielder was one of 55 Kiwis in action last weekend.

Vince Aso re-signs with Hurricanes

The New Zealand Herald have reported that young Hurricanes midfielder Vince Aso has re-signed with the Super Rugby franchise through 2020.

France U20s secure Six Nations, have another sent from pitch

One week after having two players handed red cards, the French U20 have had another player sent from the pitch in their Six Nations clinching match.

England v Ireland - Live Match Centre

In 1948, a Jack Kyle-inspired team swept all before them in the old Five Nations, while in 2009 it was a side starring another all-time great in Brian O'Driscoll that achieved a Six Nations Grand Slam.

Highlanders stay unbeaten in Southern Derby classic

The Highlanders remain unbeaten after coming away with a 25-17 victory in a tight affair against the Crusaders at Forsyth Barr. Their victory was just the third in the last 12 outings against the Crusaders.

England Player Ratings vs Ireland

England’s disastrous 2018 Six Nations came to a lacklustre conclusion at Twickenham today, with Ireland winning just their third-ever Grand Slam, as the home side were downed 24-15 by the visitors, on a memorable St Patrick’s Day.

The Hard Numbers - Super Rugby Week 5

Let's take a look again at all the key stats ahead of this weekend so as to put our best foot forward with the bookies.

From Borneo Eagle to Grand Slam contender

By Saturday Ireland will have arrived at the last link. Since Jonny Sexton’s very late drop goal in Paris, it has felt that Ireland’s destiny was a Championship defining St Patrick’s Day showdown with England. What wasn’t scripted however, was England no longer being a contender by the time they

Alun Wyn Jones commits to Wales with National Dual Contract

Alun Wyn Jones has committed his future to the game in Wales after re-signing his National Dual Contract (NDC) to remain at his home Region, the Ospreys.

Crusaders suffering injury crisis ahead of Southern derby

The Crusaders are dealing with an injury crisis after captain Sam Whitelock was ruled out of Saturday's Southern Derby blockbuster against the Highlanders in Dunedin with a head injury.

Sale sign 6'4, 120kg Bath ballcarrier Phillips for 'winter months'

Sale Sharks have moved to further strengthen their squad for next season by securing the signing of lock/backrow James Phillips from Bath Rugby.

Quiet exit for Wallaby great

One of Australia's greatest players has confirmed his time is up in Wallaby gold, inside centre Matt Giteau has predicted his last game for Australia has already been played.

Bulls prop cited for late hit on McKenzie

Bulls replacement prop Conraad van Vuuren has been cited after a dangerous late tackle on Damian McKenzie.

Watch - Spanish team deliver rousing pre-match speech

World Rugby have released footage of the inspiring team talk delivered before Spain's 84-10 thumping of Germany.

Highlanders gear up for South Island derby

Highlanders head coach Aaron Mauger has named a near-full strength side for the upcoming South Island derby against the Crusaders.

Ireland in talks for Chicago return

Reports out of Ireland say the Six Nations champions look set to return to Chicago's Soldier Field where their historic defeat of New Zealand took place in 2016.

Crusaders lose Crotty for Highlanders clash

The Crusaders have lost midfield standout Ryan Crotty for their southern derby against the Highlanders.

Is France proving that private ownership concerns are overblown?

Despite all the fanfare, the French national team will play off for second place in this year’s Six Nations, after pipping England 22-16 in a brutal affair in Paris. Is this really the product of a broken domestic system?

Eddie Jones names England team to face Ireland

England head coach Eddie Jones has named his side to play Ireland at Twickenham Stadium (Saturday 17 March 2:45pm KO).

Northampton Saints sign All Black prop Franks

Northampton Saints have confirmed that Ben Franks will be joining the club from the 2018/19 season.

Ireland team to face England in Twickenham showdown named

Joe Schmidt has named his starting XV to face England at Twickenham in their Grand Slam decider this Saturday.

England vs Ireland: Player-vs-player preview ratings

From Grand Slam hopefuls gunning for a historic third-successive title to trying to salvage anything from a disastrous campaign, England’s Six Nations will reach a dramatic conclusion this Saturday at Twickenham.

Blues name largely unchanged side for Stormers clash

Tana Umaga has made one injury-forced change to his side for their week five clash against the Stormers.

Stormers battling flu ahead of Blues game

Several players and members of the Stormers management team have been struck down with a serious flu virus.

Lions look to rebound against Sunwolves

Franco Mostert will lead the Lions at Ellis Park on Saturday when they host the Sunwolves in round five of Super Rugby.

McKellar rings changes for Sharks clash

Brumbies head coach Dan McKellar has made six changes as his side tries to get their season back on track against the Sharks at GIO Stadium on Saturday.

Rugby's most unwanted records

The bitter taste of defeat is familiar to some more than others but no one is more in need of a refreshing palate cleanser than Sergio Parisse.

Hurricanes Playbook - Jordie Barrett's banana split

His timing on the ball at pace makes him a dangerous option runner for the Hurricanes, who are finding more ways to inject him into the game.

Teimana Harrison gets short ban for head butt

Teimana Harrison has been banned for a headbutt after appearing before an RFU disciplinary panel.

Five coaches who could solve England's attacking woes

Just over two years since Eddie Jones and the Rugby Football Union (RFU) halted their search for a permanent attack coach, the Australian has admitted that England could still bring in someone to fill the role if the right person were available.

Kwagga Smith turns his back on Sevens

Openside Kwagga Smith is turning his back on Sevens to pursue a career in XVs full time it has been revealed.

England issue dreary prognosis on both Lawes and Hughes knee injuries

Both Nathan Hughes and Courtney Lawes season's are effectively over as the pair face knee surgery this week.

Confirmed - Jamie Roberts is leaving Harlequins for Bath

Bath Rugby have announced the signing of centre Jamie Roberts, who will join the club at the end of the season.

BBC presenter questions RFU's 'no losers' childrens rugby policy

BBC Sports journalist Sonja McLaughlan has questioned a RFU policy in which there are no winners or losers in games played by children between the age of 6 and 11 years of age.

Samoa, Canada and Romania facing World Cup nightmare scenario

There's going to be a major casualty in the run-up to the Rugby World Cup in Japan as it's highly likely that after this weekend's action at least one of Samoa, Romania or Canada will not qualify for the tournament.

Eddie Jones has apologised as footage emerges of the England coach referring to the Irish as 'scummy' in a seminar.

Damian McKenzie returns to fullback for Chiefs

Chiefs head coach Colin Cooper has named All Black Damian McKenzie at fullback when they host the Bulls in Hamilton on Friday.

Former All Black stunned by animal abuse at annual event

Former All Blacks prop Steve McDowall has said he was unaware of any animal abuse before competing in an annual elephant polo tournament in Thailand.

Leicester cult hero on the move

According to a report in The Rugby Paper, Leicester’s versatile front-rower Logovi’i Mulipola could be on his way out of Welford Road.

Twickenham set for Irish invasion with tickets selling for up to £4,400

With Ireland chasing only their third Grand Slam since 1948, Twickenham is bracing itself for an Irish invasion on St.Patricks day for the final round of the Six Nations.

The most unwanted rugby records

The bitter taste of defeat is familiar to some more than others but no one is more in need of a refreshing palate cleanser than Sergio Parisse.

Super Rugby Team of the Week - Round 4

Round four of Super Rugby has come to a close, with all seven matches completed, it’s now time to run through the Super Rugby team of the week.

NZR announce landmark Black Ferns deal

New Zealand Rugby and the New Zealand Rugby Players Association have announced a landmark deal for New Zealand’s national women’s side.

Australian Club Grades - Super Rugby Week Four

Three weeks into competition for the Australian teams and the conference has been full of surprises.

Blues triumph as Australians struggle - Winners and Losers Week Four

The Blues and Jaguares get their first wins, Akira Ioane goes beastmode and two of Australia's best are struggling in this week's Winners and Losers.

Six U18s players that are primed for rapid Premiership rises

The top six U18 teams in England met at Allianz Park on Sunday to decide the final standings for the 2018 season, and there was plenty of talent on show.

Ireland statement on Cian Healy throws fuel on fire of controversy

Despite a mounting controversy over the weekend surrounding footage which suggested Cian Healy played on despite suffering a head injury, the IRFU are claiming that the loosehead suffered a stinger injury.

Copeland signs for Connacht

Ireland have just taken a significant step up the World Rugby rankings

Six Nations champions Ireland have moved up to second in the World Rugby rankings, ahead of their Grand Slam match with England.

Analysis: How Ireland's switch plays hoodwinked Scotland

Ireland’s attacking game was multi-faceted. They varied their attack using the kicking game of Sexton and Murray, the forward pack, a range of different playmakers, wraps and screen passes and a host of innovative misdirection plays.

Jaguares triumph as Waratahs' struggles continue

The Jaguares have secured their first win of the season after trampling the struggling Waratahs in Buenos Aires.

Report: Black Ferns set to cash in

The New Zealand Herald have reported that tomorrow will see the announcement of a new agreement rewarding New Zealand's national women's side with a bigger pay packet.

"Honey Badger" reportedly Australia's next Bachelor

Holy tomorrow, how good! Former Wallabies winger and post-match interview goldmine Nick Cummins could be Australia's next Bachelor.

Rest England players before they are flogged to death... and bring back Tuilagi

After an impressive performance in Dublin stretched Ireland’s lead at the top of the Six Nations table to 10 points, England needed to show something in Paris.

Singapore Sevens: Home of the underdog

The Singapore Sevens are back for 2018, and 16 more teams will be hoping for a fairytale ending.

Wales debutant's freakish breakdown stats are the best in Europe

Today James Davies will win his first cap for Wales and many Welsh fans think it's long overdue.

A global concussion advocate is among those levelling criticism at rugby following an on-field incident involving Cian Healy, in which the Irish loosehead appeared to play on following an alleged head injury.

Spain tear Germany apart in front of 15,000 crowd

Spain are one win away from a place at Rugby World Cup 2019 after recording a comprehensive 84-10 win over Germany in front of King Felipe VI of Spain and the Webb Ellis Cup in Madrid on Sunday.

Umaga heaps praise on gutsy Blues

Blues head coach Tana Umaga was full of praise for his team's fighting spirit which saw them register their first victory of the season against the Lions at Ellis Park on Saturday.

Sergio Parisse approaches rare milestone

Italy's 38-14 defeat at the hands of Wales brings Sergio Parisse just one test loss shy of 100.

Kiwis in Europe - Parkes and Anscombe star for Wales

Kiwi-born Wales backs Hadleigh Parkes and Gareth Anscombe shine for Warren Gatland's Wales side in this week's edition of Kiwis in Europe.

O'Brien suffers another injury setback

Irish star Sean O'Brien's comeback from injury lasted less than half an hour.

Just a number: Average ages of starting positions in Super Rugby

Esportif Intelligence have compiled and released the average ages of every starting position for New Zealand, Australian and South African Super Rugby sides.

U20 Six Nations clash marred by double red card

France's loss to England in the U20 Six Nations has been marred by a double red card.

Scottish rugby, like Marti Pellow, was big in the 90s - Neil Best

There’s been a real effort this week to hype up Scotland’s visit to Dublin. The Scottish rugby renaissance is once again being preached despite so many previous false dawns.

Ireland v Scotland - a title on the line for both sides

Ireland can win the Six Nations this weekend, however Scotland can keep their Championship hopes alive with a victory in Dublin.

Ireland's Grand Slam dream remains firmly on track after they downed Scotland in a muscular display at the Aviva Stadium.

Ireland win 2018 Six Nations as England fall in France

Ireland are the 2018 Six Nations Champions as England were handed their second defeat of the tournament at the hands of France in the Stade de France.

Ireland player ratings - how they fared against Scotland

Ireland won their 14th Championship after a four-try 28-8 win over Scotland in Dublin on Saturday.
Nathaniel Cope rates how the Irish players fared at the Aviva Stadium.

England Player Ratings vs France

England failed to rebound from their Calcutta Cup loss, going down 22-16 to France in Paris, with Ireland being crowned Six Nations champions with a round still to go.

New Zealand Rugby GM calls time

New Zealand Rugby General Manager Neil "Sos" Sorensen has has resigned after 17 years at NZR and will officially leave the organisation at the end of the month.

Bristol's recruitment spree continues

Despite Bristol announcing nine new signings back in January, as well as the high-profile addition of Charles Piutau earlier in the campaign, it seems the Championship club’s recruitment for the 2018/19 season is not over.

Allister Coetzee lands head coach job in Japan

Former Springboks coach Allister Coetzee has been named as the new coach of Japanese club Canon Eagles.

A closer look at NZR's Harlequins partnership

When New Zealand Rugby and Harlequins announced they had formed a unique agreement, new grounds within the realm of rugby had been broken.

Sam Warburton haunted by series draw

British and Irish Lions captain Sam Warburton has said he will be dealing with his side's series draw with New Zealand for the rest of his life.

Former teammate reveals Brad Thorn is no chicken

Retired rugby league star Justin Hodges has revealed that you shouldn't get in the way of Queensland Reds head coach Brad Thorn when he's hungry.

All Black returns for Crusaders

Two All Blacks return to the Crusaders side ahead of their week four match against the Hurricanes.

England team for France named

England head coach Eddie Jones has named his side to play France in Paris

France vs England: Player-vs-Player Ratings

Will France build on their victory over Italy or will England bounce back from their Calcutta Cup loss?

Declan Kidney being lined up by London Irish

Former Ireland coaching duo Declan Kidney and Les Kiss are being lined up to take over at London Irish according to reports.

Ireland name team for Scotland game

Ireland have named their team for their Natwest 6 Nations game with Scotland on Saturday.

How much Dan Carter bench presses and other Saders' gym records by position

There's something of a veil of secrecy around rugby player and gym records.

Blues get All Black boost for South Africa trip

Four test All Black George Moala has been dropped from Tana Umaga's midfield.

Report: Beauden Barrett has received $3.4m offer from French club

Sydney's Daily Telegraph have reported that All Blacks five eighth Beauden Barrett has been offered a deal that would make him rugby's highest paid player.

Damian McKenzie re-signs with NZR

Young All Black Damian McKenzie has signed a new deal with New Zealand Rugby, recommitting to the All Blacks and Chiefs through 2021.

Thorn shuffles backline for Bulls match

The Reds have made one personnel change and three positional shifts in the backline for their Super Rugby match against the Bulls in Brisbane.

Sharks and Sunwolves ring changes

Sharks head coach Robert du Preez has made a number of changes to his matchday 23, while Jamie Joseph's starting side has just four survivors from last week.

Faletau to captain Wales on return

Taulupe Faletau will lead Wales for the first time as he returns to the starting line-up as captain for Sunday’s NatWest 6 Nations clash against Italy in Cardiff.

Western Force to play World Series Rugby

Andrew Forrest has lined up a series of invitational matches involving a mix of international and club teams for the exiled Western Force, suitably named World Series Rugby.

Whisper it quietly...Toomua should play at 10 for Tigers

Whisper it quietly, but Matt Toomua could be a longer-term option at 10 for Leicester Tigers.

Gatland reveals offer he's made George North in wake of Saints controversy

Wales headcoach Warren Gatland has revealed the details of an offer he made George North in light of the fallout after interim coach Alan Gaffney suggested the winger didn't want to play against Sale last weekend.

Forget England, Ireland vs All Blacks is the test of 2018

The billing of England vs All Blacks looked to be the ultimate showdown of the two superpowers of North & South. The two nations went on mammoth win streaks throughout 2016 and it became everyone’s wish to see them play in 2017.

Robbie Fleck mixes it up for Highlanders clash

The Highlanders and Stormers have named their sides ahead of their week four clash at Forsyth Barr Stadium on Friday.

Barrett set to reach milestone against Crusaders

Beauden Barrett is set to become the 12th player in franchise history to notch 100 caps for the Hurricanes when his side takes on the Crusaders this Saturday.

Rebels get three Wallabies back for Brumbies derby

David Wessels welcomes back three Wallabies as his Rebels side try to win three matches in a row for the first time in franchise history.

Lions' Springbok star Kriel suffers surgery setback

Two All Blacks set to join Boyd at Northampton

Two fellow Kiwis could be on their way to join Chris Boyd at Aviva Premiership club Northampton according to reports.

2019 Rugby World Cup tickets oversubscribed - here's how to get yours

Tickets for the 2019 Rugby World Cup have been three-times oversubscribed it was revealed by World Rugby, leaving fans sweating to see if they'll be successful.

Tom Vardell in shock move to Wales

Bristol winger Tom Varndell is expected to complete a shock move to Wales for the rest of the season.

Injuries hit the England team ahead of the France clash

England have picked up three injuries ahead of their Natwest 6 Nations game with France in Paris on Saturday.

Solomans strengthens Worcester backroom team with former Ulster head coach

Worcester Warriors continued apace with their preparations for next season with the announcement of their new Attack & Backs Coach.

Tapuai leaves Bath for Premiership rivals

Australia centre Ben Tapuai is leaving Bath at the end of the season after two years at the club, to join a Premiership rival.

Every English defeat in recent memory boils down to one key area

The fallout from England’s loss to Scotland at Murrayfield is nothing new.
There are exceptions, but for the most part, England’s losses over the last 15 years have tended to stem from issues in the contact area.

Hurricanes announce new Head Coach

The Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby have announced Chris Boyd's replacement for the 2019 Super Rugby season.

The Hard Numbers - Super Rugby Week 4

Let's take a look again at all the key stats ahead of this weekend so as to put our best foot forward with the bookies. Today I lay down my picks once more and offer up another $5 to the TAB gods.

High praise for "unreal" Lions lock

Lions head coach Swys de Bruin was full of praise for Franco Mostert's versatility during their 49-35 win over the Bulls in Pretoria.

Rebels on a roll - Winners and Losers Week Three

The Rebels are rewriting their record books, the Hurricanes are all about small victories and the Blues fail to deliver in this week's 'Winners and Losers'.

Jono Gibbes new man in charge for Waikato

Just days after the announcement that he is leaving Pro14 side Ulster at the end of the season, Jono Gibbes has been appointed as the new head coach of Waikato's Mitre 10 Cup team.

Top 10 Northern Hemisphere signings for seaon 2018-19

With much of the transfer business now concluded in the northern hemisphere, we thought we would look at the 10 most influential signings that have already been confirmed ahead of the 2018/19 Aviva Premiership, Guinness PRO14 and Top 14 seaso

Pro14 bound Juan Pablo Socino exits Falcons

Newcastle Falcons centre Juan Pablo Socino will be leaving the club at the end of the current season to join Pro 14 side Edinburgh.

Expect an emotionless England in Paris - Underhill

England know what they need to do to get back to winning ways in this year's Six Nations tournament.

Eddie Jones likens Bastareaud to 130kg hybrid of two Wallaby and All Black greats

Eddie Jones believes Mathieu Bastareaud is a potent combination of Wallaby great George Smith and All Black star Sonny Bill Williams and admits shackling the controversial French centre will be one of England’s main problems in Paris on Saturday.

Zac Guildford returning to Europe after Super Rugby snub

Troubled former All Black Zac Guildford will return to European Rugby after failing to secure a Super Rugby contract.

Hurricanes overcome sluggish start to top Jaguares

The Hurricanes have overcome a sluggish start to beat the Jaguares in Argentina and claim their first victory of the season.

In a postmatch press conference Brad Thorn was asked by a journalist "would you be asked would you be happy if I wrote that was the most ridiculously yellow card in the history of rugby?'

Early Crusaders blitz buries Stormers

The Crusaders have beaten the Stormers 45-28 at AMI stadium in Christchurch thanks to an opening stanza blitz that took the game away early from the South Africans.

Injury-ravaged Sunwolves go down fighting to Rebels

The Rebels have opened the season with two straight wins, putting away an injury-ravaged Sunwolves 37-15 in Tokyo at Prince Chichibu Stadium. The final scoreline didn’t reflect the toughness of the encounter, which had the sides locked 10 a piece at halftime.

Jonathan Davies goes above and beyond in 4x4 during Storm Emma

Welsh centre Jonathan Davies has proven he's not just a hero on the pitch, if reports emerging from Wales are anything to go by.

George North didn't want to play against Sale today - reports

Northampton Saints technical consultant Alan Gaffney has sensationally suggested that George North did not want to play for Northampton Saints in their loss to Sale today.

Scotty Stevenson: The real problem with the Blues

Another week, another defeat and yet another search for a solution to the Blues’ never-ending sob story.

Blues lose captain for South Africa tour

Blues captain Augustine Pulu is set to miss his side's two-game tour of South Africa.

Three things Erasmus must fix to turn Springbok ship around

The worst kept secret in SA Rugby has been confirmed with Rassie Erasmus becoming the new Springbok coach and signing a contract that takes him through until the World Cup in France, 2023.

NZR partner with Harlequins

New Zealand Rugby have partnered with Aviva Premiership club Harlequins, signing a co-operation agreement aimed to benefit both parties.

The Short Ball - Season 3 - Episode 6

Sumo's back, baby. And dives right back into the rugby world with Mils as they navigate the tricky waters of whether or not refs should be penalising more accidental head contact. Plus, will the Blues ever get out of their slump?

Former All Black joins Auckland coaching staff

Filo Tiatia has joined former All Black teammate Alama Ieremia's Auckland coaching staff.

Stephen Perofeta back in action

Promising Blues first five eighth Stephen Perofeta's Super Rugby return may be just around the corner.

Ulster Rugby in turmoil after Jono Gibbes walks

Head Coach Jono Gibbes will leave Ulster Rugby at the end of the season to return to New Zealand.

Queensland Reds get first win of Thorn era

The Queensland Reds have come away with their first win under new head coach Brad Thorn, beating the Brumbies 18-10 at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on Friday night.

Eddie Jones: Abuse, identity and the challenges of rugby fandom in the modern game

This conflict between old attitudes and modern pressures is central to the discussion about the Jones incident.
Whether we like it or not, rugby is growing as a sport, reaching new and unfamiliar audiences as it does so.

Eli Walker retires at 25

Ospreys winger, and Wales international, Eli Walker, has announced his retirement with immediate effect.
Despite his best efforts to return to playing for the Ospreys following back surgery early in 2017, he has been unable to make a complete recovery.

Luke Romano joins century club

Luke Romano joins seven of his current teammates in reaching the milestone of 100 Super Rugby games.

Rugby league converts - The good, the bad and the ugly

We take a look at some of the rugby league players who have dabbled in union, and judge whether their careers in the 15-man sport were good, bad, or ugly.

Blues' horror run continues

The Blues' dry run against New Zealand opposition continues as they slip to 0-2.

USA great retires following severe brain bleed

USA Sevens stalwart Zack Test has announced his retirement following a severe brain bleed as the result of a head collision.

Super Rugby Power Rankings - Week Two

Each week we take a look at who's rising and who's falling in Super Rugby.

All Black suffers broken thumb

Crusaders captain Matt Todd could be out for up to six weeks after breaking his thumb.

Confirmed - Venter to become a Warrior

As reported by RugbyPass yesterday, Worcester Warriors have today confirmed that Springbok centre Francois Venter will be joining the Club on a two-year deal from Guinness Pro 14 side the Cheetahs this summer.

Three more Pro14 games fall victim to the 'Beast from the East'

PRO14 Rugby have confirmed that three more games have been postponed due to heavy snowfall or what is now widely being called 'The Beast from the East'.

Analysis: Why the Blues need to play Rieko Ioane at 13

The Blues are going to run into real problems this year based on what we saw last Friday night and run the risk of wasting talent on the wing.

Jerome Kaino's new Top14 club was let slip on Twitter

It has been revealed where now former All Black Jerome Kaino will play in France next season.
On Tuesday he confirmed speculation that his time as an All Black had come to an end.

Three things Eramus must fix to turn Springbok ship around

The worst kept secret in SA Rugby has been confirmed with Rassie Erasmus becoming the new Springbok coach and signing a contract that takes him through until the World Cup in France, 2023.

Barrett brothers to start for Hurricanes

The Barrett brothers have returned to the Hurricanes' starting lineup for their week three clash with the Jaguares.

Super Rugby Squads - Week Three

Here are all of week three's lineups in one place.

Tigers to lose another hooker

It looks as though Leicester are set to lose another of their promising hookers, as George McGuigan closes in on a return to Newcastle Falcons ahead of the 2018/19 season.

Eight players commit futures to Toyota Cheetahs

Free State Rugby is delighted to announce that eight talented players have committed their future with the Toyota Cheetahs until 2019 and they are William Small-Smith, Nico Lee, Elandré Huggett, Ernst Stapelberg, JP du Preez, Lloyd Greeff, Sibabalo Qoma and Dennis Visser.

Sales Sharks release statement as fullback's Munster switch confirmed

In a move first reported on RugbyPass earlier this month, Mike Haley has confirmed that he will switch to the Pro14 and Munster.

Warriors sign Quade Cooper's Reds replacement, Jono Lance

Warriors are delighted to announce that Australian fly-half Jono Lance will be returning to the Club ahead of the 2018/19 season on a two-year contract.

Analysis: The curious case of Jesse Kriel

On the surface, Jesse Kriel looks unstoppable. However, after three seasons of Super Rugby and international rugby, the 24-year-old monster has yet to really reach the potential that seems within him. Is this the year Kriel breaks out?

Irish womens prop hits out at verbal abuse from spectator

Irish womens prop Leah Lyons took to Twitter to call out a spectator who likened her to a farm animal from the stands during a Womens Six Nations game between Ireland and Wales on the weekend.

Big guns ruled out of Blues Chiefs derby

Friday night's New Zealand derby between the Blues and Chiefs at Eden Park is looking increasingly in favour of the home side, who welcome back a host of stars while the Chiefs have been blighted by injuries.

Six Nations release findings of 'Tunnelgate' scuffle investigation

Six Nations Rugby has concluded its investigation into an incident that allegedly took place before the senior men's international match between Scotland and England at BT Murrayfield in the 2018 Natwest Six Nations Championship on Saturday, 24 February 2018.

Despite playing just 14 minutes, North reaches obscure statistical milestone

Despite playing just 14 minutes against Ireland in Dublin, George North has advanced considerably in his bid to run down an obscure statistical attacking record held by Brian O'Driscoll.

Ben John steps away from game over long term health fears

Ospreys wing Ben John has confirmed that he is to take a 12-month sabbatical from rugby as he recovers from the latest of a series of head injuries that have affected him over the last year.

The first rugby casualty of the weather conditions emerges

The PRO14 Rugby have just confirmed that this Friday’s Round 17 fixture between Ulster Rugby and Glasgow Warriors has been postponed until the weekend of April 20.

Ryan Wilson's medical history critical in citing complaint not being upheld

Scottish Number 8 Ryan Wilson is free to play against Ireland after his citing for an incident with Nathan Hughes during the Calcutta Cup on the weekend was dismissed.

Cheika issues ultimatum - World Cup or I walk

Australian coach Michael Cheika has stated he will walk away from Australia's top coaching job if the team doesn't bring home the Rugby World Cup in 2019.

Sale Sharks lock in AJ McGinty's long term future

Sale Sharks’ long-term ambitions have received another major shot in the arm with the news that influential fly-half AJ MacGinty has signed a new four-year contract with the club.

Young Reds looking to rebound against Brumbies

With two starters receiving three week bans the Reds have been forced to shake things up against the Brumbies.

Scotland could have beaten All Blacks the way they played – Andy Goode

Scotland were scintillating on Saturday and deservedly sent England packing with their tails between their legs but they have to back it up and win away to be serious contenders.

Scarlets confirm Maori All Black replacement for Beirne

A Junior World Championship winner and seasoned pro in Super Rugby, who currently plies his trade for the Hurricanes.
His versatility as a loose forward means he play at number 8, six and in the second row.

The deadliest marksman in Premiership history... and it's not Wilko

Sale Sharks and United States fly-half AJ MacGinty is officially the most accurate goal-kicker Premiership Rugby has ever had.

Nigel Owens came in for some criticism at the weekend with from English fans, aggrieved by the Welsh man's decision making during their clash with the Scots at Murrayfield.
Namely his decision to send Sam Underhill off and disallow two potential English tries.

Farrell out of the Six Nations

Chris Farrell received treatment on the field earlier today after twisting his knee in the turf during an Irish open training at the Aviva.
He subsequently jogged on to re-join the rest of the playing group and felt well.

The Hard Numbers - SuperRugby Round 2.5

As SuperRugby prepares to launch into round 2.5 it's an excellent time to take a look at the hard numbers behind this weekend's fixtures and ensure we all make sound decisions when lodging bets with the local bookie.

Kiwis carving up the north - Six Nations special

Bundee Aki was again good value for Ireland, scoring a try in the 37-23 win over Wales. Gareth Anscombe entered the fray at 63 minutes for Wales, but threw the final intercept pass for Jacob Stockdale to score.

Winners and Losers - Super Rugby Week Two

The Lions have a new secret weapon, Beauden Barrett reaches a big milestone and Super Rugby is officially back.

A hot favourite has emerged in bid to sign Springbok Venter

According to Rapport, Francois Venter could be the next big name to announce a move to the Aviva Premiership, with Worcester Warriors believed to be leading the chase for his signature.

Vunipola singles out two Scots England simply weren't ready for

Mako Vunipola has given a brutally frank assessment of England’s failing against Scotland admitting England “let themselves down” but will learn the painful lessons from their Murrayfield defeat before facing France in Paris on March 10.

First indication given that a rushed England return for Tuilagi unlikely

Eddie Jones has resisted the urge to bring Manu Tuilagi back into the wider England squad, suggesting the centre's is unlikely to feature in this year's Six Nations.

Wales to play Springboks...in America

Wales will face South Africa in Washington DC to kick off their 2018 summer tour it has been announced.

Exclusive: An open letter from Wyatt Crockett

After 71 tests and 1 match for the All Blacks, Wyatt Crockett has called time on his international career. Here, in a RugbyPass Exclusive, he tells us why he is stepping down from the All Blacks. He has other news too.

Ryan Wilson has been cited

Scottish Number 8 Ryan Wilson has been cited for an incident with Nathan Hughes during the Calcutta Cup on the weekend.

Australian Club Grades - Super Rugby Week Two

There was an Australian derby to get us started and the Brumbies were in Japan to face the Sunwolves. Here are the grades for each team.

England short of game-winners, heavy on game-managers

The next two weeks in the England rugby camp are going to be fascinating.

Why Ireland fans should be worried about the performance against Wales

This is easily the least robust defence of any Joe Schmidt side in memory, a coach that prides himself on attention to detail and defensive effort.

Six Nations XV of Round 3

The 2018 Six Nations passed the halfway mark this weekend, as the runners and riders positioned themselves for their final push for success in the two rounds still to come.

Friday Night Lights - a history

The Six Nations is probably the biggest annual international sporting competition in the world.

Club subplot to Ireland v Wales clash - Neil Best

We may all have come on different ships, but we’re in the same boat now
This is true of all test sides but for both Ireland and Wales their truth is slightly different.

Challenging times ahead for the Chiefs – Super Rugby 2018 Preview

The Chiefs are set to face their most challenging year in over a decade after enjoying unprecedented success under ex-head coach Dave Rennie.

Third club now in the frame to win James Haskell signature - reports

A new club is now in the frame to win the signature of soon to be ex-Wasps backrow James Haskell.

Shane Williams charged with affray - reports

Wales rugby legend and now TV pundit Shane Williams has been charged following an incident in Cardiff City Centre.

If fans wanted an indication of the edge involved in today's Calcutta Cup match in Edinburgh, they need not have looked further then the pre-match warm up.

Scotland vs England: England Player Ratings

The 125th edition of the Calcutta Cup played out today and, with little surprise, it duly delivered a fascinating rugby spectacle.

Ireland vs Wales: Ireland player ratings

After Ireland's 37-27 win over Wales, Nathaniel Cope gave his verdict on the players who have kept Joe Schmidt's side on track for the Grand Slam

Dai Young issues damning statement over Lovobalavu ban

Wasps centre Gaby Lovobalavu was this week suspended for four matches by an independent disciplinary panel.

Barrett on bench for Hurricanes opener

All Blacks five-eighth Beauden Barrett has been named on the bench for the Hurricanes' opening clash against the Bulls.

Maestro Mo’unga versus Mighty Mouse

Damian McKenzie vs Richie Mo'unga could be New Zealand's next great first-five rivalry. The two 10's matchup in the opening round of Super Rugby, but these two careers have been intertwined since schoolboy rugby.

Chiefs face tough start to Cooper era

The Chiefs and Crusaders have been named ahead of their rematch of last year's semifinal.

Hong Kong to host first ever Super Rugby game

Hong Kong will stage its first ever Super Rugby match on 19 May 2018 at Mong Kok Stadium when Japan’s Hito-Communications Sunwolves host South Africa’s DHL Stormers in Week 14 of the 19-week 2018 regular season.

Lovobalavu banned and Wasps fined

Gabiriele Lovobalavu of Wasps has been banned and the club fined following a technical breach.

Scotland vs England: Player-vs-Player Preview Ratings

It may have been a rather one-sided match-up in recent years, but there is still something very special about the Calcutta Cup, especially one played at Murrayfield.

There are many great rivalries in the world of rugby union. As with most things in life, opinions vary from place to place when selecting the greatest of all rivalries.

Relax Falcons fans, Sinoti Sinoti ain't going anywhere

Hot-stepping winger Sinoti Sinoti will be thrilling Newcastle Falcons fans beyond the end of this season after the Samoan star agreed a contract extension to remain at Kingston Park Stadium.

Blues and Highlanders reveal teams for opening round Kiwi clash

The Highlanders and Blues have named their teams ahead of Friday night's Kiwi derby in Dunedin.

Scotland's Everest, but just another game for England – Andy Goode

A lot of people are talking up Scotland’s chances of beating England this year and it might well be their best opportunity for a while but it’s been 10 years since it happened and I’m expecting another England victory on Saturday.

Super Rugby's Coaching Carousel: Nine new men in charge

Super Rugby’s coaching carousel has come to a stop for now, with nine teams featuring a new man at the helm.

Doncaster Knights prop dies during training

Tributes are pouring in after a Doncaster Knights prop tragically died during a training session yesterday.

Gloucester Rugby respond to Gloucestershire Constabulary statement

Gloucestershire Constabulary confirmed to the local media this morning that Gloucester Rugby Head Coach Johan Ackermann and his son Ruan will face no action from police over an incident in a nightclub.

LIVE: St Michaels College vs Clongowes Wood College

Eir Sport in Ireland are streaming St.Michael's College versus Clongowes Wood College in the Leinster Schools Senior Cup quarter-final live.

Video - 'I haven't been quite right' - Payne on concussion nightmare

In an interview with Ulster Rugby TV, Jared Payne speaks about the injury that ended his involvement in the British and Irish Lions tour last summer, and subsequently also ruled him out of the season to date with Ulster.

Multiple media outlets in France are now reporting that Johan Goosen has been bought out of his Racing 92 contract by Montpellier in an unprecedented mega deal.

Mallinder set for Welsh move

The former Northampton Saints director of rugby has been out of work since he was sacked from his role at Franklin’s Gardens in December.
Mallinder has today been tagged as the man to take over the reigns at a major Welsh region.

Kiwis in Europe - Lowe hits high notes for Leinster

James Lowe’s strong form continues following a two-try effort for Leinster.

SRU looking to the Premiership for 'third side'

The latest interesting piece of Anglo-Scottish news is that the Scottish Rugby Union (SRU) are looking into the prospect of investing in Aviva Premiership side, Newcastle Falcons.

Ireland bring in reinforcements as injuries pile up for Wales game

Ireland have brought in several players to their squad for their upcoming Natwest 6 Nations match with Wales as the injuries continued to mount.

Nadolo urges SANZAAR to take bold step to improve Super Rugby

Scots get an injury boost ahead of their clash with England

The Scots' campaign started with a 7-34 defeat by Wales but they were without several front-row forwards for the match in Cardiff before bouncing back to beat France 32-26 in Edinburgh.
However, there is some good news for Scotland.

Stormers' Bok has undergone 'emergency surgery'

The Stormers were forced into a late change before they survived a strong Jaguares fightback in the second half to record a 28-20 win at Newlands in Round One of Super Rugby.
Mbongeni Mbonambi withdrew from the matchday squad, with Samuels replacing him.

Scotland add six players to squad ahead of England clash

Head coach Gregor Townsend today named a revised Scotland squad for the NatWest 6 Nations as the group reconvened ahead of this Saturday’s Round 3 Test against England at BT Murrayfield.

Media outlets in New Zealand are reporting that Jerome Kaino's long-heralded move to France is set to go ahead in the next few weeks

Neil Best - Wales to be fuelled by their Twickenham injustice next weekend

It is not by muscle, speed or physical dexterity that great things are achieved, but by reflection, force of character and judgment.
The first two-week lay down in this year’s Six Nations will play differently for each team depending on their circumstances.

Scots get a Saffa boost ahead of their clash with England

The Scots' campaign started with a 7-34 defeat by Wales but they were without several front-row forwards for the match in Cardiff before bouncing back to beat France 32-26 in Edinburgh.
However, there is some good news for Scotland.

Stormers' Bok has underwent 'emergency surgery'

The Stormers were forced into a late change before they survived a strong Jaguares fightback in the second half to record a 28-20 win at Newlands in Round One of Super Rugby.
Mbongeni Mbonambi withdrew from the matchday squad, with Samuels replacing him.

Ireland international Conway signs contract extension at Munster

Andrew Conway has signed a contract extension with Munster Rugby and the IRFU.

Union wins tug-of-war with League for teen prodigy

New Zealand Rugby has won the battle for cross-code prodigy Etene Nanai-Seturo after coming to an agreement with the New Zealand Warriors.

RFU anti-doping report - professional rugby is clean; amateur rugby, not so much...

If the results of the RFU Anti Doping report are anything to go by, then the professional game in England does not have an overt problem with performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs).

More Welsh misery as Jonathan Davies' season declared over

Welsh centre Jonathan Davies season is now over in what is a body blow for Scarlets and Welsh rugby at large.

The inevitable Jarryd Hayne to Union story is gathering pace

It's the story that could more or less write itself at this stage - as inevitable as the setting sun, the coming of the seasons or Eddie Jones having a dig at the opposition during match week.

New Zealand Rugby vetting plans scream of arrogance

With moves to the northern hemisphere confirmed for the likes of Brad Shields, Lima Sopoaga, Charlie Ngatai and Seta Tamanivalu, amongst others, in recent months, it has clearly prompted New Zealand Rugby (NZR) to act.

Hurricanes planning to play without Beauden Barrett?

The Hurricanes completed a successful pre-season yesterday with wins over the Crusaders and Blues following a runners-up showing at the Brisbane Tens. The team was notably without any appearance by superstar Beauden Barrett.

England have earned far from universal praise after their win over Wales at the weekend but their winning mentality and ability to find a way to win gives them the edge in this Six Nations.

Crusaders purchase stake in US pro rugby franchise

The Canterbury Rugby Union has purchased a minority stake in a US professional rugby team.

New York team announced for Major League Rugby

Rugby United New York (RUNY) will join Major League Rugby as an associate member, the league announced today. New York’s first professional rugby team will play an exhibition schedule in 2018 before playing a full MLR schedule beginning in 2019.

Super Rugby talent drain? Check out the line-ups for this pre-season game

Stories of an apparent Southern Hemisphere exodus northwards since the Rugby World Cup in 2015 have been the fodder of media outlets the length and breadth of the rugby world.

Northampton Saints have confirmed that prop Kieran Brookes will be leaving the club at the end of the season.

EXCLUSIVE: 'This has been my toughest season' - Sinckler ready to control aggression

Having seen Harlequins teammate Joe Marler recalled to the England squad after his second ban of the season, Kyle Sinckler is desperate to regain his own lost ground and play a part in the Six Nations championship.

Video - 10 times barely credible trysavers stole the show

Last weekend witnessed another thrilling round Six Nations action and yet more examples of game-changing individual brilliance.
Ireland’s Keith Earls and England’s Sam Underhill produced the latest greatest moments of this year’s Championship.

Analysis: Did Quade Cooper 'struggle' last season? Part One

Breaking down the game tape we look at the 29-year-old flyhalf to qualify Thorn’s claims in this two-part analysis - first looking at set-piece attack and then open phase play and defence.

Sunwolves looking for stability – Super Rugby 2018 Preview

Three seasons into the Sunwolves experiment and there are already concerns about the long-term future of a Japan-based side in Super Rugby.

Munster in for English full-back?

With northern hemisphere rugby in the midst of contract season, deals are seemingly being announced on a daily basis.

Worcester Warriors sign Wales international

Worcester Warriors continued their preparations for the 2018/19 season by signing adding another Wales international to their squad.

Northampton Saints have signed George North's replacement and he's massive

Northampton Saints have just confirmed the signing of wing Taqele Naiyaravoro from the NSW Waratahs.

Bristol-bound Charles Piutau suffers injury blow for Ulster

Ulster suffered a blow with the news that fullback Charles Piutau has been struck down with injury.

Denton to leave for Premiership rival, while Du Preez joins Worcester

Warriors have confirmed that their Scotland international David Denton will be leaving the club at the end of the season.

England’s winning mentality gives them edge in race for Six Nations title – Andy Goode

England have earned far from universal praise after their win over Wales at the weekend but their winning mentality and ability to find a way to win gives them the edge in this Six Nations.

France head coach Jacques Brunel has dropped eight players from his 31-man squad to face Italy in Marseille in the Natwest 6 Nations on February 23rd.

World Rugby issue statement over TMO decision at Twickenham

World Rugby has issued a statement over Wales' disallowed try against England at Twickenham last Saturday.

Concussion claims another - RugbyPass looks at players who've been forced to retire due to head knocks

Concussion has claimed another professional rugby player with 26-year-old Hurricanes prop Reggie Goodes retiring.
RugbyPass looks at some other players who've been forced to hang up their boots because of head injuries

Kyle Eastmond banned after pleading guilty to red card hit on Smith

Kyle Eastmond of Wasps appeared before an independent disciplinary panel this evening.

Sexton's arc of redemption - Neil Best

People don’t have these tidy little redemption arcs like they do in movies.
Unless of course, you’re Jonny Sexton on a rugby field – because for him redemption only takes twenty minutes and a nerveless drop goal.

Tolufua on why he left French squad and why he may never return

France and Saracens hooker Christopher Tolofua has taken to social to explain the circumstances that lead him leaving the squad just days before their opening match against Ireland.

Manu Tuilagi to make latest comeback this afternoon

Manu Tuilagi is set to return to the Leicester Tigers backline for today's Aviva Premiership fixture away to Gloucester Rugby at 2.30pm.

Nigel Owens' riposte to boxer who suggests death sentence as gay deterrent

International referee Nigel Owens has hit out at comments made by an Australian boxer who suggested the death penalty could be used to deter people from being gay.

Ireland player ratings versus Italy

Ireland picked up their second win of the Natwest 6 Nations with a comprehensive 56-19 win over Italy.
RugbyPass looks at how the Irish players fared at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

England Player Ratings vs Wales

After all the entertainment of the pre-match press conferences over the past week, England and Wales finally met on Saturday afternoon, with England edging a tense 12-6 win at Twickenham.

Welsh players rating vs England - Too little, too late

Wales became stronger the longer the game went on, but still lost 6-12 top England in a thrilling Six Nations encounter at a rain-swept Twickenham on Saturday.

Jekyll and Hyde England on collision course with Ireland

Mission Grand Slam remains on. Mission history-making third-straight title remains on. But boy, England were made to work hard for victory at Twickenham on Saturday

Wasps flanker Sam Jones has been advised to retire from rugby a year and a half on from a horror judo accident picked up during an England training camp.

Be warned... Jordie Barrett has bulked up in the off season

As if Jordie Barrett's skill set and athletic ability weren't enough, the twice-capped All Blacks phenom has been 'bulking up' ahead of Super Rugby.

Six Nations XV of Round 2

Another fascinating weekend of Six Nations rugby is in the books and the Grand Slam dreams of England and Ireland both live on.

Big Man Syndrome

Once again New Zealand rugby finds itself grappling with the always confronting and sobering question: does size matter?

Confirmed - Danny Cipriani to leave Wasps

Wasps have confirmed that Danny Cipriani will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.

Police prevent French team from departing Edinburgh - reports

The French Rugby Federation (FFR) have confirmed that some of the players involved in their 32-26 loss to Scotland in Edinburgh on Sunday have been detained for questioning, following a brawl that occurred on Sunday night.

Video - Digby Ioane's model nephew scores hattrick against Scarlets

A player with a famous surname and a distinctive look scored a hattrick of tries against Scarlets on the weekend.

Red carded Kyle Eastmond cited on two separate incidents

Kyle Eastmond will have to answer for two separate incidents during Wasps match with Harlequins at the Twickenham Stoop on Sunday.

French 'detention' - there have been developments in Scotland

The French Rugby Federation (FFR) have suggested that the reports that a number of their players have been involved in a brawl were not true.

Kiwis In Europe - Maitland and Berghan to the fore for Scots

There were contrasting fortunes for the eight New Zealanders in the thick of Six Nations action over the weekend.

Courtney Lawes issues warning to those seeking to target Mike Brown

Courtney Lawes is ready to make the transformation from YouTube sensation to England talisman with Scotland set to feel the full force of the Northampton hitman in the Calcutta Cup clash at Murrayfield on February 24.

Concussion forces Hurricanes prop Goodes to retire

Hurricanes prop Reggie Goodes has been forced to retire from rugby due to a continuing series of concussions.

Rory Best breaks silence on rape trial attendance controversy

Irish Captain Rory Best broke his silence regarding his attendance at the trial of Ulster teammates Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding at Laganside Crown Court this week.

Rugby Canada issue statement to 'dismayed' fans

Rugby Canada have issued a statement in the wake of their loss in a crucial two-leg qualifier with Uruguay for entry into the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

Nadolo racially abused while on night out with family

Giant Fijian winger Nemani Nadolo has revealed that he was racially abused in front of family members while on a night out following a Top 14 match.

Six Nations address French HIA controversy in statement

Following last night's Ireland France clash in Paris, the Six Nations have addressed the controversy around the circumstances in which two France players were subject to HIA protocols, despite no clear head injuries having been sustained.

England Player Ratings vs Italy

England got their 2018 Six Nations campaign underway with a resounding away win in Rome, although they were made to work hard for 60 minutes by an Italian side that was not afraid to play against the reining champions.

Simmonds and co impress, but fault lines exist in Eddie's England

England’s trip to Rome on Sunday bordered on something resembling the perfect start to the Six Nations for Eddie Jones and his men.

Watch Racing 92 v The Sharks live from Hong Kong

Top14 heavyweights Racing 92 are set for a battle with Super Rugby's The Sharks live in Hong Kong from 4:00pm HKT today. Watch it free throughout Asia right here on RugbyPass.

Extinction is the rule. Survival is the exception.

I only played against France in Paris once during my career, and by the time I came on the game was already lost. France got ahead and stayed ahead. No French team is an easy prospect in Paris despite some new coaches, faces and their recent

The twenty one turbulent, record breaking months of Allister Coetzee

Allister Coetzee is no longer the Springbok coach after twenty-one turbulent months in the job. It was an inevitable ending after a string of poor results as well as the recently leaked letter to SA Rugby’s CEO Jurie Roux in the press.

Nigel Owens famously told a player that 'this is not soccer' and according to reports, rugby's referees want to keep it that way.

Controversy in Paris as doubt cast over France's use of HIA protocol

Questions have been raised following France's loss to Ireland in Paris this evening after doubt was cast over the home side's insistence that two players were in need of Head Injury Assessments (HIAs).

'It's pretty hard to explain' - Schmidt reacts to Sexton wonder kick

Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt was lost for words as his ‘inspirational’ side somehow dug out a late 15-13 victory over France at Stade de France courtesy of a Johnny Sexton drop-goal.

Racing 92 and The Sharks meet in Hong Kong

2018 will mark the fourth edition of the Natixis Rugby Cup, with the first in 2013 pitting Racing 92 versus Stade Toulousain in the first ever meeting between two professional French sides in Hong Kong.

Sharks always a Bridesmaid - Super Rugby 2018 Preview

SUPER RUGBY PREVIEW 2018: In the third instalment of our 15-part build-up to the season we start with the South African Conference and look at the Sharks.

Goodey and Jim pre-digest the Natwest Six Nations

Former England fly-half Andy Goode and Scotland lock Jim Hamilton may have hung up their boots but they are still making headlines in the game with some strong opinions on The Rugby Pod.

Landing spots for Quade Cooper - an evaluation

In one of the more noteworthy Super Rugby offseason storylines, Reds head coach Brad Thorn made the decision to cut fly-half Quade Cooper from his squad

Italy vs England: Head-to-head Preview Ratings

After the drama of Italy unleashing “The Fox” last season and the general tension surrounding the comments of the two respective coaches in the aftermath and now build-up to this fixture, Italy vs England has more excitement around it this season.

Karmichael Hunt's cocaine charge dropped

The 31-year-old appeared in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Monday to hear of his fate after he was accused of possessing cocaine and the prescription drug Xanax on a night out on December 30.

The Highlanders have beaten the NSW Waratahs 55-29 in their pre-season Super Rugby match in Queenstown, whilst the Hurricanes and Blues have trounced the Crusaders and Chiefs in their New Zealand derbies.

Can Bulls cope with Kiwi confines? - Super Rugby 2018 Preview

SUPER RUGBY PREVIEW 2018: In the fourth instalment of our 15-part build up to the season we start with the South African conference and look at the Bulls.

Brad Thorn publicly explains reasons for axing "struggling" Cooper

New Queensland Reds head coach Brad Thorn has publicly spoken to reporters for the first time about his decision to drop flyhalf Quade Cooper.

Secondrow shock change flagged in heavily rumoured Irish team to play France

The Irish media have predicted that the Leinster secondrow James Ryan will start alongside Devon Toner against France in Paris on Saturday.

Northampton Saints' fiesty new head honcho fires shot at Steve Hansen

Struggling Northampton Saints received a timely boost this week with the announcement that Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd is to become their director of rugby next season.

U20 Six Nations - Players to Watch

Whilst excitement levels are understandably peaking for the 2018 edition of the Six Nations, it’s younger counterpart, the U20 Six Nations, is also set to kick-off this weekend.

Toner loses out to Leinster teammate as Ireland team named

Ireland have selected James Ryan at second row for their Natwest 6 Nations opener against France in Paris on Saturday.
Ryan, who has just four caps, has usurped his more experienced Leinster and Ireland teammate Devin Toner.

North to make second comeback attempt alongside Saints' Springbok debutant

George North is getting a second shot at a comeback after being withdrawn at the last minute last weekend in the Anglo Welsh Cup, and he will do so alongside a Springbok backrow.

George Smith has now been fired

Japanese Top League club Suntory have fired Wallaby great George Smith and he has been also been fined by the Queensland Reds.

Semi Radradra's new club and lucrative 2 year deal confirmed

Semi Radradra has signed a new two year deal which will see cross from the French Riviera to the Atlantic Coast in a move that will earn the former NRL star massive salary.

World Rugby have given fans behind the curtain access to the Barbarians FC, and it's the BaBas like you’ve never seen them before.

The battle for talent - the Etene Nanai saga

New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and the NRL club New Zealand Warriors are in a contract war over who has rights to one of the best prospects seen in a generation - Etene Nanai-Seturo.

The 1014 Podcast - Six Nations Preview

The 1014 Rugby preview The 2018 Six Nations Tournament. We explore the fixture list and patterns in the statistics from previous tournaments.

My Six Nations Fantasy XV - Andy Goode

The hype is building and the opening weekend of the Six Nations is almost here, so it's time to pick your fantasy team for the tournament. I've picked mine and it'll be tough to beat.

Stormers the enigma of South Africa - Super Rugby 2018 Preview

SUPER RUGBY PREVIEW 2018: In the second instalment of our 15-part build-up to the season starting with the South African conference we look at the Stormers.

Scotland team for Natwest 6 Nations opener with Wales named

Head Coach Gregor Townsend has named six changes to the Scotland team that started against Australia in November for this Saturday’s NatWest 6 Nations opener against Wales at the Principality Stadium
Glasgow Warriors full-back Stuart Hogg returns to the side.

Underhill must get 'smarter' - Neil Back

Former England openside Neil Back believes England's backrow play needs to improve if England are to beat the best sides in the world.

Confirmed - All Black Tamanivalu signs three year deal in France

Crusaders’ wing Seta Tamanivalu has officially signed a three year deal with Top 14 outfit, Bordeaux Bègles.

BREAKING: Les Kiss leaves Ulster with immediate effect

Ulster Rugby can confirm that Les Kiss will be leaving his post as Director of Rugby by mutual consent, effective immediately.
Ulster Rugby would like to thank Les for his commitment and wish him well in his future career.

Roger Tuivasa-Sheck reportedly making code switch in 2019

NRL Superstar Roger Tuivasa-Sheck is set to make a code-switch in 2019 in a bid to play in the Rugby World Cup, according to some the switch to the fifteen-man code is "done".

World Rugby Law Amendments Adopted for Super Rugby

Super Rugby and The Rugby Championship will this season adopt the Law Amendments that were announced by World Rugby in July 2017 prior to the start of the 2017/2018 northern hemisphere season.

Dan Carter would be 'silly not to consider' playing in Indo-Pacific League

All Black legend Dan Carter has told the South China Morning Post he would be "silly not to have a look at" playing for Hong Kong in the Indo-Pacific League if it goes ahead.

Lions in state of uncertainty - Super Rugby 2018 Preview

SUPER RUGBY PREVIEW 2018: In the first instalment of our 15-part build-up to the Super Rugby season, we start with the South African Conference and look at the Lions.

Irish schoolboy rugby match marred by violent scenes outside stadium

An Irish schools rugby match in Dublin yesterday was marred by ugly scenes outside the stadium, with fans of two rival schools coming to blows in the middle of the street.

Coetzee plays race card - more details of explosive letter emerge

Worcester Warriors sign up another player for the 2018/19 season

Worcester Warriors preparations for 2018/19 continued apace today with another signing confirmed.
Director of Rugby Alan Solomons clearly has Premiership Rugby in mind for next season with this latest addition.

This is what we know about England's three main injury worries

With just days to go before England kick off their 2018 Six Nations campaign, there are fitness concerns surrounding three of their key players.
Eddie Jones' side face Italy in Rome in their opening match on Sunday.

Queensland Reds sign another ex-player as Hunt Cover

After signing former players Jono Lance and Ben Lucas, the Reds have gone back to the past again to sign another former fullback to cover Hunt's absence.

Prosecutors have outlined the case against Ulster Rugby stars Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding and two other men on the first day of their rape trial at Belfast Crown Court today.

Brumbies looking for more tries with new style

New Brumbies Head Coach Dan McKellar has said that the team will look to improve the team's try-scoring record by tweaking the team's style of play in favour of more attacking play.

When the level playing field is just not big enough

There are more problems than solutions when it comes to the integration of Sevens World Series events, but, as Scotty Stevenson discovered in Sydney, it is clearly the way forward for the sport.

Rugby World Cup 2019 ticket application opens

Rugby World Cup has opened up the ticket application process for Japan 2019. Fans can now register for team and stadium packs ahead of the deadline on the 12th February.

England's selection battles for Italy

Having enjoyed plenty of success since Eddie Jones arrived as head coach, England have developed the core of their side in a winning environment.

Leicester lock to exit club this summer?

Following the signing of Will Spencer last week, Leicester Tigers could be preparing to lose Dom Barrow come the summer, with Sale Sharks understood to be keen on the lock.

Will Hurrell signs for Bath, sort of

Bath Rugby have confirmed the loan signing of Bristol Rugby centre Will Hurrell until the end of the season.

Be warned - Cordero set to tear up Premiership defences

Santiago Cordero says he is looking forward to an "exciting" challenge ahead after today agreeing terms on a deal with the Exeter Chiefs until the end of the season.

Northampton Saints announce Hurricanes headcoach as new DOR in major coup

Northampton Saints have confirmed Chris Boyd as the club’s new Director of Rugby in a major coup for club.
The 59-year-old Kiwi has agreed a three-year deal and will begin his new role at Franklin’s Gardens at the start of August 2018.

Kiwis in Europe - Early win for new Montpellier Kiwi signing

Hoeata, who is a medical joker for Vern Cotter’s side until the end of the season after injury to Jacques du Plessis, made eight runs and five tackles for his new team.

Plumtree in line for Hurricanes head coaching role

Hurricanes assistant John Plumtree will still be named as Boyd's successor as Head Coach after the Northampton Saints confirmed Boyd had signed on as their Director of Rugby at the conclusion of this Super Rugby season.

Six Nations 2018 Preview - England

England come into the 2018 Six Nations bidding to win their third-straight championship, a feat that has not been achieved since France did so in 1988, albeit with Les Bleus sharing the title with Scotland and Wales in two of those three

Kingsley Jones' Canada humbled at home in RWC2019 qualifier

After losing at home to Uruguay in the first leg of their crucial Rugby World Cup Americas 2 qualifying match, Canada stand on the brink of needing a repechage tournament to gain entry to the game's greatest showpiece event.

Two more lower ranked All Blacks on verge of French deals - reports

It is being reported that two more All Blacks are set to make the switch to the Top 14.
Liam Napier writes that All Blacks and Crusaders' wing Seta Tamanivalu and Chiefs' midfielder Charlie Ngatai are set to sign for French clubs.

Dear SARU...you tried to destroy me, like you did De Villiers - explosive Coetzee letter emerges

Springbok head coach Allister Coetzee has hit back at the South African Rugby Union with an explosive letter addressed to CEO Jurie Roux.

Six Nations preview - Ireland

Ireland had a disappointing Six Nations last year by their lofty standards, rescued by a final day win over England.
Joe Schmidt's side go into the tournament as second favourites, but start off away against an unpredictable France.

Six Nations preview - Scotland

Scotland's impressive autumn performances have ignited optimism ahead of the 2018 Six Nations. Gregor Townsend has continued the progress made by Vern Cotter , but injuries in the front row could derail their hopes.

Video - Japan have revealed their RWC mascot... prepare yourselves

Ren-G, the official mascots of Rugby World Cup 2019™ were unveiled by the Japan Rugby 2019 Organising Committee at a special event in Tokyo on Friday.
The mascots are based on traditional storytelling characters grounded in ancient Japanese culture

The RugbyPass Six Nations 2018 Preview Series - Wales

Coming into the 2018 Six Nations, there is a positivity around Wales’ chances that has been absent for the last two or three tournaments.

The tiny nation that produces more pro-rugby players per capita than any other on earth

Have you heard of Wallis and Futuna?
Nestled roughly equidistant between Fiji and Samoa, the tiny nation has the distinction of being the most prolific producer of professional union players per capita on the planet.

North pulls out of comeback game for Northampton Saints' at last minute

Wales star George North has pulled out of his comeback match on the eve of the Six Nations.
In a potential hammer blow for Wales, Northampton Saints announced that North would be replaced in today's line-up by Tom Collins.

Video - Pep talk from Guardiola gives Scotland a Six Nations boost

Gregor Townsend hopes a visit to English Premier League club Manchester City will help give Scotland an edge in the Six Nations.
He was given tips from one of the world's highest profile football managers.

RugbyPass secures exclusive multi-year Six Nations rights deal

RugbyPass, the home of live rugby in Asia, has today announced a landmark deal to provide exclusive coverage of the NatWest Six Nations across 23 Asian territories.

Sir Graham Henry returns to coaching

Former NPC, Super Rugby and World Cup winning coach Sir Graham Henry is set to return to coaching in New Zealand. He will join Tai Lavea as part of the Auckland Rugby coaching team for 2018.

Video - 2019 Rugby World Cup mascot revealed, what do you think?

Ren-G, the official mascots of Rugby World Cup 2019™ were unveiled by the Japan Rugby 2019 Organising Committee at a special event in Tokyo on Friday.
The mascots are based on traditional storytelling characters grounded in ancient Japanese culture

Confirmed - Leicester Tigers poach backrow from rivals Wasps

Back-rower Guy Thompson has agreed a move to Leicester Tigers from Wasps for the start of the 2018-19 season.

Steve Tandy's replacement at Ospreys announced

Pro 14 side Ospreys have announced Steve Tandy’s replacement.
Tandy, who led the Welsh club to Pro 12 success in his first season in charge, was sacked following their Champions Cup exit.

Former All Black Thomson still struggling to walk

Former All Black Adam Thomson remains at Tsukuba Memorial hospital in Tokyo, still unable to walk following his mystery illness more than a month after being struck with "excruciating pain".

Analysis: How Danny Cipriani found career-best form at Wasps

One would expect replacing Charles Piutau and Kurtley Beale would disrupt the attacking rhythm but the Wasps attack is firing on all cylinders a month into Cipriani’s return from injury.

Josh Bassett commits his rugby future to Wasps

Despite rumours that he was to sign for Northampton Saints, Wasps have announced that Josh Bassett has become the latest player to sign a new contract with the club.

The return of David Strettle to the Premiership has been confirmed

Saracens have just confirmed the return of winger David Strettle on a one-year deal from the start of the 2018-19 season.

Queensland Reds a mystery following Quade's absence

Just how the Reds play and who plays where this season remains a mystery, with Tens captain Samu Kerevi admitting that it will tough to fill the void left by Quade Cooper.

Schoolboy Prodigy named in New Zealand Sevens squad

His Sevens debut will be much anticipated in rugby circles after playing for three years in the St Kentigern 1st XV before playing for the New Zealand schoolboys in 2017.

Everthing you need to know about the Brisbane Tens

Brisbane's biggest festival of rugby is just around the corner, with the two-day Global Rugby tens tournament kicking off on February 9 at Suncorp Stadium.

Peter de Villiers linked with international coaching role

It has been confirmed that former Bok coach Peter de Villiers has been interviewed for the Zimbabwe national team coaching job. Although De Villiers is widely expected to get the job, a final decision has yet to be made.

New Zealand born NFL player looking to bulldoze his way into Eagles team

A New Zealand born New Zealand born NFL is set to earn his first cap for the US Eagles after returning to the sport of his youth.

The Premiership's Champions Cup annus horribilis - why?

The ink was barely dry on the quarter-final match-ups of the Champions Cup this past weekend before the public dissection of the Premiership’s annus horribilis in the competition began.

Liam Williams could miss Six Nations- reports

It's being reported that Liam Williams could be a potential doubt, not only for the Scotland match, but for the entire Six Nations.

Wyles makes 'incredibly tough decision' to retire

At the end of the current season Saracens will say farewell to one of the club’s most capped, and most popular, players when Chris Wyles retires from rugby.
Wyles, who joined Saracens in 2008, has made 243 appearances for the club scoring 67

After 17 years John Muldoon calls time on career

Connacht Captain John Muldoon has announced that following 17 years with the province, he is to retire at the end of the 2017/18 season.
Muldoon has represented his home province over 300 times and captained Connacht to success in the PRO12 Championship

A frightening Fiji XV that could cause serious damage at RWC2019

When it comes to the rugby public's perception of Fiji - cliché is not in short supply.

Vito, Nacewa headline Kiwis in line for Europe's player of the year award

Former All Black Victor Vito and ex-Blues player Isa Nacewa have made a shortlist of 15 players nominated for European Player of the Year, an award no Kiwi has ever won.

The 1014 Podcast - Rugby The Global Game

Are The Six Nations and Rugby Championship elite poker tables that roadblock Tier 2 development? How is World Rugby helping The Pacific Islands? Is there a Global Season in the making?

Watch: Tongan Thor bends one like Beckham

Queensland Reds and Wallaby front-rower Taniela Tupou, also known as the Tongan Thor might be an unlikely goalkicking option for Reds this season after slotting a banana from the sideline in practice

Don’t anoint Leinster as Saracens’ successors just yet, 10 weeks is a long time in rugby – Andy Goode

It was an amazing finish to the Champions Cup pool stages and, while the favourites might look obvious to everyone right now, it’ll be a whole different ball game in 10 weeks’ time.

Police raid French Rugby headquarters

Police have raided the headquarters of the French Rugby Federation (FFR), as part of an investigation into alleged favouritism and conflict of interest involving the organisation's president Bernard Laporte and Montpellier's billionaire owner Mohed Altrad.

Toulon match breaks Parc Y Scarlets stadium attendance record

Things couldn't be going much better for the Scarlets at the moment, and it's starting to pay dividends at the ticket office.
The Pro14 Champions hosted Toulon in their final pool match of Champions Cup on the weekend, and the French giants weren't the only things to fall that

Champions Cup XV of Round 6

The pool stage of the Champions Cup came to a thrilling conclusion this past weekend, as 14 teams bade to join Leinster in the knockout rounds.

Two Aussies, three games - a beer fuelled roadtrip through New Zealand provincial rugby

On the final weekend of the provincial rugby season, two footy mad boys from the heart of Brisvegas came to New Zealand. It was the best four days of the rugby year.

Ulster issue statement explaining why they won't sign Stephen Donald

Ulster Rugby have released a statement explaining why they won't be signing former All Black flyhalf Stephen Donald.

Ospreys announce the sacking of Steve Tandy in statement

Managing Director of Ospreys Rugby, Andrew Millward, gas confirmed that Head Coach, Steve Tandy, will be leaving his position at the region with immediate effect.

Has Brad Shields just stolen James Haskell's life?

Wasps blindside James Haskell once joked that Harlequins loose-forward Chris Robshaw 'stole his life', alluding to the Harlequins stalwart's tenure in England's backrow - for a time as captain.

Henry Slade to miss England training camp in Portugal

Rugby's butterfly effect - has one signing set off a Premiership chain reaction?

In the last two weeks, the first dominos have fallen in a carousel of wing moves affecting Premiership clubs for the 2018/19 season.
Firstly, Alex Lewington’s move to Saracens was announced, before a week later Nathan Earle’s departure from north London to south-west London and Harlequins

Kiwis in Europe - Tries aplenty for Kiwis in Europe

No less than 15 by Kiwis were scored over the weekend’s final pool round of European Champions and Challenge Cups action. Nine came in the Champions Cup alone.

Reds sign ex-Force playmaker

The 27-year-old pivot was a key figure in the Force backline for two seasons, before linking with the Rebels after the side was exiled from Super Rugby. He will now bolster the Reds stocks along with another ex-Red Ben Lucas.

Highlanders to host match in Fiji

"We are aware of the large following Super Rugby enjoys in Fiji and we are happy to have the chance to showcase our style of game in the islands.

This is how Bristol's first XV is shaping up for 2018/19

With their bulk announcement of nine players yesterday in what the club dubbed the 'Signed Up Saturday' a pretty clear picture of what a potential Bristol first XV will look like is starting to emerge.

On verge of prodigal return, Brumbies hit with Pocock blow

Pocock returns to Canberra on Monday after ending a year-long sabbatical from Australian rugby duties.
However, the Brumbies will probably have to wait until April to use the 29-year-old loose forward.

Eddie Jones could be taking England to Georgia midway through the Six Nations to harden his forwards.
The England head coach is also considering training sessions against Six Nations rivals Italy, Wales and Scotland.

Bristol Rugby set to announce 9 signings today

Bristol Rugby will reveal no less than nine signings for the 2018/19 season at 12 noon today.

Are you paying attention? - video released explains new Super Rugby format

The 2018 re-structured 15-team Super Rugby tournament kicks-off in four weeks time on Saturday 17 February in South Africa when the Stormers host the Jaguares in Cape Town. The Lions, runners-up the last two years, host the Sharks in Johannesburg, while the Bulls have a

Bristol Rugby reveal all 9 signings as Lam bulks up pack

Bristol Rugby are in the process of revealing nine new signing as part of a bumper 'Signed Up Saturday' reveal.

Aviva Premiership on the cusp of Champions Cup exit

There is a very real possibility that by the end of round six tomorrow evening, no English side will have progressed to the final stages of the Champion Cup.
As the five groups currently stand before the final round of action, there would be no Aviva Premiership representative in the last eight.

Documentary - Lealliifano opens up on rugby, life and his battle with leukaemia

Australian international Christian Lealiifano's certainly has had plenty of challenges in his life.
In a powerful interview before he departs Pro 14 side Ulster he discussed his childhood, the death of his father, his rugby career and his successful battle with leukaemia.

Saracens keep their European dream alive with rout

Saracens showed their attacking flair in full flow as they ran in seven tries in a bonus-point win over Northampton Saints on Alex Goode's 250th appearance.

Liam Messam signs for Toulon

A Chiefs flanker has signed a two-year deal with Toulon and will join the French club after the Super Rugby season.

Carbery in line for Leinster return

Ireland were given a Six Nations boost with the news that Joey Carbery has been named on the bench for Leinster’s Champions Cup game with Montpellier this weekend.
Carbery hasn't played since breaking his wrist against Fiji during the Autumn internationals.

Six Nations rivals to face each other in Autumn international

Two Six Nations rivals will pit their wits against each other in a November international.
Wales and Scotland will contest the ‘Doddie Weir Cup’, in support of the former Scotland and British & Irish Lions player, who has Motor Neurone Disease.

England's worst fears confirmed over Vunipola

England rugby fans were dealt a blow with the latest Billy Vunipola injury update on Friday.
The number eight fractured his forearm playing for Saracens against the Ospreys last weekend.

Toulon tipped to announce Kaino signing within 48 hours

An All Blacks flanker is tipped to sign with French club Toulon, with Toulon owner Mourad Boudjellal stating an announcement is imminent.

Jones names 35 man England squad for Italy

England head coach Eddie Jones has named his squad to begin preparations for England’s first match of the NatWest 6 Nations against Italy in Rome.

Does adventurous England selection promise fireworks?

England head coach Eddie Jones announced his squad to play Italy earlier today and it has thrown up some surprising names.
Gloucester scrum-half Ben Vellacott had been tipped for a call-up but failed to make the squad, while Northampton's Harry Mallinder was selected.

Harlequins hand out coaching contract extensions

Harlequins have announced contract extensions for Director of Rugby John Kingston, Head Coach Mark Mapletoft and Forwards Coach Graham Rowntree.
Kingston said: “I’m immensely proud to have the opportunity to continue being part of a club that is evolving."

Ben Lucas back at Reds to cover Hunt, Cooper

Former Queensland Reds utility Ben Lucas, who was apart of their championship-winning season in 2011, is back at Ballymore for a second stint with the side.

Analysis: How the Exeter Chiefs are revolutionising the wing position

In the English Premiership, Exeter Chiefs’ wingers are undergoing their own evolution, albeit with slightly less profile but no less fascination. Jack Nowell and Olly Woodburn play like no other wingers in World Rugby.

Eddie Jones agrees contract extension

England Rugby head coach Eddie Jones has extended his contract at the RFU until August 2021.
Jones, who joined in November 2015, had previously been contracted until after the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.

George Smith arrested in Japan

Wallaby legend George Smith has been arrested in Japan following an incident with a taxi driver.

The latest James Haskell club transfer rumour truly stretches credibility

With Wasps apparently not interested or willing to extend James Haskell's stay at the club, it's no surprise that the England flanker has been linked with numerous clubs both within the Premiership and further afield.

Bastareaud receives ban and its length is going to upset many

Toulon centre Mathieu Bastareaud, has been suspended for three weeks following an independent Disciplinary Hearing in London today arising from his club's Champions Cup, Round 5 match against Benetton Rugby at Stade Félix Mayol.

Joe Schmidt names Six Nations squad

Joe Schmidt has named a squad of 36 players for the opening two rounds of the 2018 NatWest 6 Nations Championship.
Ireland take on France in Paris in their opening fixture before hosting Italy at the Aviva Stadium.

Strettle set for Premiership return - Reports

Former England international David Strettle could be heading back to finish his career at Saracens, according to ex-team-mate Jim Hamilton and Andy Goode.

Blues young gun Caleb Clarke picked for New Zealand Sevens

18-year-old Blues winger Caleb Clarke has been named in the New Zealand Sevens squad for the Sydney sevens.

Raelene Castle to visit Perth to mend bridges after Force saga

Rugby Australia's new CEO is expected to visit Western Australia in an effort to mend bridges following the exiling of the Force from Super Rugby.

Trio on the brink after weekend of surprises – Andy Goode

With just one round to go the Champions Cup quarter-final line-up should have been really starting to take shape but seven spots are still up for grabs after a weekend of missed opportunities.

Karmichael Hunt faces end of rugby career if guilty

Karmichael Hunt's prospects of remaining in Australian Rugby look tied to the outcome of his court hearing later this month.

Wales announce squad for the 2018 Six Nations

Warren Gatland has just named a 39-man squad for the upcoming 2018 NatWest Six Nations, led by captain Alun Wyn Jones and featuring two uncapped players, flanker James Davies and wing Josh Adams.

What the Bastareaud incident tells us about rugby today

French centre Mathieu Bastareaud could be out of the Six Nations after being cited for audibly directing a homophobic slur towards Sebastian Negri during Toulon’s Champions Cup clash with Benetton Treviso.

Alex Lewington signs for Saracens

Saracens have today confirmed the signing of 26-year-old winger Alex Lewington from London Irish, he will join at the start of the 2018/19 season.
The former Leicester Tigers man has enjoyed a breakout year for Irish and Saracens are excited to add him to their ranks ahead of next season’s campaign.

Have England already found an eventual replacement for Jamie George?

After years of debates in the media and amongst fans over the identity of who England’s openside flanker should be, it seems the focus has now moved further forward in the pack to the hooker position.

Kiwis carving up North - Anscombe still good value for the Blues

Anscombe, now 26, underlined his value to Cardiff with a decisive try and a penalty goal to edge the Blues ahead of their French rivals.

Steenson decides his future and it's in England

Gareth Steenson has spoken of his delight after putting pen to paper on a new two-year deal with the Exeter Chiefs.

Dragons lock down one of Wales most promising backrows in 3 year deal

Dragons have announced that back row Harri Keddie has signed a new deal keeping him at the Welsh region for the next three seasons.

Lima Sopaga's move to Premiership confirmed

As exclusively revealed last week by RugbyPass, Lima Sopoaga will be playing in the Premiership next season.

Dallagio has selection advice for Eddie Jones as England hit by backrow crisis

Lawrence Dallaglio is urging Eddie Jones to pick the Exeter pair of Sam Simmonds and Don Armand to solve England’s Six Nations back row crisis created by injuries to Billy Vunipola and Nathan Hughes and James Haskell’s red card.

London Irish break silence over rumoured €3.5million takeover bid

London Irish have confirmed that it is considering a number of offers of investment in the club.

Danny Cipriani reveals Wasps exit possible as Top 14 clubs circle

Wasps flyhalf Danny Cipriani has revealed that talks have taken place between his agent and a French club over a move next season as he considers his options for next season.

Nonu close to Toulon exit - reports

Speculation is mounting that former All Black Ma'a Nonu will leave Toulon for another Top 14 club at the end of the current campaign.

Bastareaud takes to Twitter to address storm over 'homophobic slurs'

Toulon centre Matthieu Bastareaud has taken to social media to address allegations that he used homophobic slurs in his side's European Champions Cup win over Treviso this afternoon.

Champions Cup XV of Round 5

The penultimate round of the European Rugby Champions Cup brought contrasting fortunes for some of the tournament’s front-runners.

Pocock and McMahon set to face off in Japan final

Australian back-row stars David Pocock and Sean McMahon are set to face-off in the Japanese Top League final, for Panasonic Wild Knights and Suntory Sungoliath respectively.

The latest Simon Zebo comments emerging from France have put even more distance between him and Joe Schmidt's Ireland team, although the Cork native still apparently wants to be involved in Ireland Six Nations plans.

NZ Rugby can't rule out All Blacks as doping scandal set to escalate

More New Zealand rugby players are set to be banned for doping offences - NZ Rugby general manager Neil Sorensen has revealed.

Etzebeth could miss entire Super Rugby season

The Stormers may be without the services of one of their key players for most - if not all- of the Super Rugby Season.
If social media reports are to be believed, Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth will spend several months on the sidelines.

The insane numbers behind All Blacks mass migration

Lima Sopoaga this week confirmed that he would leave Super Rugby franchise the Highlanders at the conclusion of the upcoming season.
Sopoaga has signed with Wasps for the northern 2018/2019 season, just one of a long list of All Blacks making the journey north.

Maro Itoje has four metal plates in his jaw but insists he is ready for a whatever Ospreys throw at the Saracens lock in tomorrow’s vital European Challenge Cup clash in Wales.

Australian players to receive pay rise despite concerns

Despite declining ratings and attendance declining, Rugby Australia has negotiated a pay rise for players under the new collective bargaining agreement with the Rugby Union Players' Association.

Feature: Lima Sopoaga's legacy in New Zealand

Lima Sopoaga is the latest All Black to depart and join English Premiership side Wasps on a 2-year deal, and at just 26-years old many will say too soon, however, he has always defied conventional ‘ageism’ looking back on his career.

How French rugby has already changed under Jacques Brunel

The Guy Noves era at France ended three weeks ago, when he was unceremoniously dumped from the job he claimed to love and replaced by Jacques Brunel.

McCall reveals behind the scenes talks that reignited Saracens season

Mark McCall believes clear the air talks were key to ending a seven game losing run and has put Saracens back on track to register a third successive European Champions Cup triumph this season.

Finally, better injury news for Clermont

Top 14 champions Clermont look to have turned an injury corner heading into the crucial fifth round of the Champions Cup.

Phipps addresses fears over Israel Folau's future

He will be one of the most sought-after signatures in 2018, with a return to rugby league a very real possibility. However, Phipps is assured that Folau is happy in the Waratahs environment.

Will Genia looking for fresh start at Rebels

Will Genia has spoken of his desire to return to the Queensland Reds before coming to the conclusion that playing elsewhere in Australia would be best at his first press conference as a Rebel.

Exclusive: Sopoaga in million dollar move to Premiership

The English Premiership has swooped on another front line All Black with Lima Sopoaga set to announce he has signed with Wasps for the northern 2018/2019 season.

Racing 92 announce Zebo signing in peculiar fashion

Racing 92 have announced the signing of Simon Zebo by publishing an interview with the Munster man a few days ahead of their crucial Champions Cup game in Paris.

Banahan exit from Bath has just been confirmed

Gloucester Rugby have confirmed that experienced back Matt Banahan will switch West Country allegiances this summer, making the move from Bath Rugby.

Threat of the NFL looms for English rugby

For a long time now, English rugby has been the king of the castle.
We have seen this season, however, that there is a new player in town and his chequebook is considerably larger than that of English rugby.

Former NZ U20s player among 4 suspended on doping charges

Two former New Zealand representatives are among four players suspended for doping offences, NZ Rugby have said in a statement.

Cordero heavily linked with both an Aviva and Pro14 club

According to reports, Santiago Cordero has been linked with a move to either Welford Road or Thomond Park.
Cordero played his rugby last season for the Argentine franchise the Jaguares but has not been named in their 2018 squad.

Robbie Deans looking for fourth Japanese title

Robbie Deans is on the verge of winning a fourth Japan Top League rugby title with the Panasonic Wild Knights after his side came away with a tight 17-11 semifinal victory over Toyota Verbitz on Saturday.

The Chiefs 2017 schoolboy recruitment haul - 5 of the best

The Chiefs may well have won the class of 2017 recruitment race - believed to have secured five of the best New Zealand schoolboys.

Tigers in trouble and look set to miss out on top four – Andy Goode

Leicester put a stop to their worst run since 1965 with a win over London Irish at Welford Road but they were far from impressive and this looks like being the first time for 13 years that they haven’t made the playoffs.

Wasps winger Josh Bassett’s move reportedly a done deal

Josh Bassett, the Wasps man who Charlie Morgan from the Telegraph described as 'the most underrated all-rounder' in the Premiership looks set to jump ship.
Reports from a number of reputable sources are linking the 25-year-old to a move away from Wasps

Lydiate will not play again this season

Dan Lydiate will undergo surgery this week on the bicep injury he suffered in the New Year’s Eve win at the Dragons.
The flanker left the field during the first half at Rodney Parade and will now miss the remainder of the season.

Gabriel Ibitoye's Harlequins future confirmed

Harlequins have today announced that Academy members Gabriel Ibitoye, Dino Lamb, Niall Saunders and Calum Waters have all extended their time at the Club.
Harlequins Director of Rugby, John Kingston confirmed the news of the new contracts,

John Afoa's Gloucester exit a done deal

36 time capped All Black John Afoa has been rumoured to be leaving Gloucester for the past number of weeks.
Before Christmas Gloucester head coach Johan Ackermann acknowledged that there was some truth behind the rumours.

Ex-Chief set to join Ulster

The man set to replace Christian Lealiifano at Ulster is an ex-Chief, according to the Irish Independent. The 34-year-old is set to join the side on a short-term deal when Lealiifano returns to Australia at the end of the month.

Banned - Joe Marler to miss chunk of Six Nations

Joe Marler of Harlequins appeared before an independent disciplinary panel this evening after receiving a red card from referee Matt Carley during Saturday’s Aviva Premiership match against Sale Sharks.

Hosea Saumaki 'Tongan Godzilla' joins Sunwolves squad

We labelled the relatively unknown Hosea Saumaki, as 'Japan's next superstar nobody knows about' in November last year and predicted that would change in the near future.

Exclusive: Lima Sopoaga to sign with Wasps

The English Premiership has swooped on another front line All Black with Lima Sopoaga set to announce he has signed with Wasps for the northern 2018/2019 season.

Kiwis carving up the north - Accurate Botica keeping Oyonnax alive

Ben Botica is leading the way for unfashionable Oyonnax as the central-eastern French club fights hard to avoid relegation in the Top 14.

Ins and outs expected as Harlequins set to overhaul engine room

It could be a new-look engine room for Harlequins next season, with sources confirming to RugbyPass that lock Charlie Matthews looks likely to leave the club at the end of the season.

Cash rich Sale Sharks to search globe for player - Diamond

AJ MacGinty, the USA Eagles No10, is waiting to discover how seriously he damaged his knee helping defeat Harlequins 30-29 and Sale are set to launch a world wide search for a replacement to get them through the rest of the season.

Both Harlequins prop Joe Marler and Sale backrow TJ Ioane will face disciplinary panel for striking each over the course of the weekend.

Robbie Deans looking for forth Japanese title

Robbie Deans is on the verge of winning a fourth Japan Top League rugby title with the Panasonic Wild Knights after his side came away with a tight 17-11 semifinal victory over Toyota Verbitz on Saturday.

Wayne Smith reveals Cancer diagnosis

"Through the Rugby Championship I knew I had it, but I didn't really talk to anyone (inside the All Blacks). The only one was the team doctor, Tony Page, and I didn't even tell him.

Ulster Rugby have confirmed that they have signed a new 'overseas' flyhalf, but are as of yet refusing to name the player.

Leinster issue statement on 'incident' at Grandstand at RDS

A area of seating at the RDS was closed off by Irish police last night over safety concerns regarding a row of seats.

Matt Banahan is leaving Bath for rivals - reports

Although neither Gloucester nor Bath have officially confirmed the move, Matt Banahan will play his rugby for Gloucester next year.

Powerhouse Canadian 7s player Zaruba gets second shot at NFL

Canadian Sevens player Adam Zaruba is getting a second shot at the NFL, having signed a futures contract with Philadelphia Eagles.

Leinster's Fergus McFadden hits teammate with the social media burn of 2018

Leinster's Fergus McFadden scored a brace of tries in the Pro14 sides heavy defeat of Irish provincial rival Ulster last night, and it was that brilliant vein of form continued on Twitter.

Rugby players 'viewed as commodities' - Jason White

Following on from our piece yesterday on Nick De Luca, Jason White former Scotland captain has today had his say on the issue.
White believes that modern rugby players are "viewed as commodities" by their clubs.

Analysis: How Beauden Barrett burns opposition halfbacks

While his personal favourite play might well be the kick-pass, this set piece play would go close. The play is designed for Barrett to hit top speed and break the line, isolating slower halfbacks and exposing slide defence.

Confirmed - Two of England's biggest stars are returning to action this weekend

England stars Billy Vunipola and Maro Itoje return to action this weekend for Saracens - both ahead of schedule.

Time to scrap the 30 cap rule - An argument for Cheslin Kolbe

Currently, the Springboks have a 30-cap ruling for South African born players who ply their rugby overseas, making anyone with less than 30 test caps ineligible to become a Bok.
One such player is Cheslin Kolbe, currently in the Top14 with Toulouse.

'Friends I played with are really struggling' - De Luca on rugby's mental health problem

Former Scottish international Nick DeLuca says many professional rugby players he played alongside are struggling with mental health concerns and that more needs to be done within the game to combat the condition.

Highest paid positions in the Top14, Pro14 and Premiership revealed

Last month we brought you a comparison guide between the Aviva Premiership and the Pro14.
Now Esportif Intelligence have updated their figures to include the Top14, giving us a better idea about the different value each league puts on specific positions.

Analysis - What you need to know about England's U20 Squad

The 2017/18 England U20 Elite Player Squad was named on Wednesday afternoon and it brought with it plenty of unfamiliar faces.

Video - Scott Baldwin is remarkably magnanimous about the lion who attacked him

Ospreys and Wales hooker Scott Baldwin says getting bitten by a Lions in South Africa was the catalyst to his improved form in recent months.

Dai Young has just ended all speculation about the Wales job

Wasps have announced that director of rugby Dai Young has signed a long-term extension to his contract.

England will conquer the All Blacks in 2018 - Andy Goode

As the new year gets underway it’s a time to look ahead to the next 12 months, as well as reflect on the past year, and I’m looking forward to a second England win over New Zealand in the last 15 years.

Scotland could raid more players from New Zealand system

Glasgow Warriors centre Nick Grigg was playing club rugby for Petone rugby club in Wellington, New Zealand - where he was born and raised - before uploading a YouTube video that would change his life.

Spartans RFC player banned for 4 years for anabolic steroid use

A Spartans RFC player has been handed a four year ban for the use of anabolic steroids.

With Cipriani on verge of England exit, these are Wasps options

It is closing in on crunch time for Wasps and Danny Cipriani.

Clermont plan raid on Japan's Top League to bolster depleted side: reports

With 10 backs and five forwards currently out of action, Top 14 side Clermont will try to tempt three international backs from their current clubs in Japan as they look to ride out a serious injury crisis, reports say

Saracens sign Rebels scrum-half

Saracens have today announced the signing of Nic Stirzaker on a three-month deal.
Nic will be with the club until March and plies his trade as a scrum-half. London-born Stirzaker was raised in Australia from the age of two.

George North a major doubt for Six Nations opener

Saints Technical Coaching Consultant Alan Gaffney commented, “While it’s disappointing that George will be missing ahead of Saturday’s game, this injury means an opportunity for another player in the squad to step up to the plate."

Semi returns to Toulon - but huge offer awaits him at rival club

Semi Radradra belatedly returned to training with Top 14 Toulon on Wednesday, January 3, amid rumours that he will walk out on the club at the end of the season.

Banned - Sammy Arnold banned for redcard shot on Lealiifano

Sammy Arnold of Munster Rugby faced a Disciplinary Hearing today and has been banned for three weeks.

Kiwis carving up the north. Marty Banks + 95

The strong New Zealand influence at Benetton Treviso has helped the Italian club up to fifth position in Conference B of the Guinness PRO14.

The Goode, the Bad & the Ugly of 2017 - Andy Goode

The dawn of a new year might be a time for resolutions and self-improvement but it’s also the perfect moment to reflect on the standout teams, players, tries and moments from the past year.

Five steps to save London Irish from the drop

Heading into Christmas, they lost the potential 10-point swing result at the bottom of the table with Worcester Warriors, 23-8, before narrowly missing out on a much-needed win at home to Newcastle Falcons, falling to a 15-20 defeat at the Madejski Stadium.

Dan Lydiate could miss Six Nations through injury

Wales flanker Dan Lydiate could possibly miss out on the Six Nations after he suffered a bicep injury for the Ospreys on New Year's Eve.
Lydiate was replaced in the first half of his side's victory over the Dragons at Rodney Parade.

Former Samoan international makes bold claims about cocaine in rugby

Just last week the news broke that Wallabies star Karmichael Hunt had been arrested in Brisbane for the possession of cocaine.
Hunt was arrested and released by Queensland Police in the early hours of Saturday morning, with the 31-year-old set to appear in court January 29.

Van der Flier sets Pro14 single game tackle record

Josh van der Flier set a new Pro14 record at the weekend for the most amount of tackles in a single game.
It was a timely reminder for the Irish international to send Joe Schmidt as the Six Nations draws ever closer.

Injuries see 5 England players withdrawn from training squad

Eddie Jones have been forced to remove five players from the England training squad due to injuries sustained over the weekend.

The remarkable links between rugby and World's Strongest Man competition

The world of strength athletes has reached a milestone this year, with the sport's centrepiece competition - World's Strongest Man - entering its 40th year.

The story of Toulon's missing Fijians

Former Parramatta Rugby League convert Semi Radradra failed to turn up to training at his French Rugby Union side Toulon after Christmas and his coach has reacted in a very surprising way.

The BBC public vote 'Team of 2017' has been released and it might surprise you

The BBC have released a '2017 Team of the Year' composite XV which has aggregated the result of over 100,000 teams submitted from rugby fans who used their site.

An MIT economist has ranked the 58 best club sides on the planet

Rugby analysis website 'Rugby Vision' have released their list of the 58 best club sides in the world according to statistics.

On This Day: Ali Williams makes his debut...in the English second tier

Depending on who you ask, Ali Williams is either one of the greatest rugby players of the last twenty years, or an absolute muppet.

Coetzee's underachieving backline of 2017

While head coach Allister Coetzee will take the lions share of the blame for the Springboks poor run of form in 2017, the players undoubtedly also must take some of the responsibility.

Henson publicly apologises after being dropped by Dragons

Gavin Henson has found himself left out of Bernard Jackman's side to face Ospreys tomorrow evening.
The 35-year-old took to Twitter to apologise to fans and explain the reasons for his axing.

Australia's Top Super Rugby Rookies of 2017

Australia’s Super sides had a disastrous 2017, losing all 26 matches against their New Zealand counterparts and losing a franchise. There wasn’t much to write home about in 2017, but these Rookies were some of the few bright spots for the Aussies.

Quade Cooper adds fuel to Blues rumour

Each passing week it seems there are signs Quade to the Blues will actually happen.

Alan Gaffney appointed as Saints’ interim director of rugby

Northampton Saints have today confirmed Alan Gaffney as the Club’s technical coaching consultant until the end of the 2017/18 season. Gaffney will begin working at Franklin’s Gardens on New Year’s Day ahead of the Club’s Aviva Premiership match against Gloucester on Saturday 6 January 2018.

England announce Brighton training camp squad

England head coach Eddie Jones has selected a training squad to take part in a New Year training camp.
34 players will come together in Brighton on January 1 for a two-day camp.

RugbyPass' breakout XV of 2018

It is fair to say to that 2017 delivered its fair share of exciting rugby prospects.
Down in New Zealand, Jordie Barrett and Rieko Ioane shot to prominence, while in the north you have Marcus Smith, Jordan Larmour and Antoine Dupont.

Top 30 Players of 2017

With 2017 nearly at its close and 2018 knocking on the door, we decided to take a look back at a memorable year of rugby by compiling our top 30 players of the last 12 months.

Kiwis carving up the north: Pau need only NZers to beat Clermont

Former All Blacks supplied all the points for Pau as the south-western French club edged Clermont 22-21 in Top 14 action over the Christmas period.

Luatua looking to extend stay at Bristol

Former All Black flanker Steven Luatua is enjoying life at Bristol, the 26-year-old indicating he would like to stay on since joining the side earlier this year after his Blues Super Rugby commitments ended.

Giant lock Scotland-Williamson leaves rugby for shot at NFL

Giant lock Christian Scotland-Williamson has left Worcester Warriors as he looks to pursue a career in American Football in the USA.

Watchability Rankings: December 2017 - a strange time of year

December is a strange time of year for rugby, especially in the Northern Hemisphere.

Banned - Steff Evans sidelined for Christmas red card

Steffan Evans of Scarlets faced a Disciplinary Hearing today via a video conference and has been banned

Banned - Scottish prop Berghan to miss portion of Six Nations

Simon Berghan of Edinburgh Rugby faced a Disciplinary Hearing today and has been banned for his red card headstamp in the 1872 Cup.

Cardiff Blues re-sign former Hurricane

The former Hurricanes midfielder received an extra gift on Christmas Day - a contract extension with the Cardiff Blues, the team he joined in 2015.

John Mitchell confident his philosophy will turnaround Bulls

Former All Black head coach John Mitchell is confident that the new philosophy he's instilled at the Bulls will reap rewards next year.

Kiwis carving up the North - Total: 86

Former All Blacks supplied all the points for Pau as the south-western French club edged Clermont 22-21 in Top 14 action over the Christmas period.

Premiership Rugby have fined Bath over international window breach

Doctors diagnose illness that saw former All Black Thomson rushed to hospital

Former All Blacks backrow Adam Thomson was rushed to hospital in Japan this week, with doctors initially struggling to diagnose what exactly was wrong with him.

Noves becomes first France coach to be sacked

It's official. Guy Noves has lost his job as head coach of France.

Jonny May free after disciplinary case heard on papers

Leicester Tigers wing Jonny May is free to play after it was found his red card in the weekend's clash with Saracens was punishment enough.

RugbyPass' Top 30 Players of 2017

With 2017 nearly at its close and 2018 knocking on the door, we decided to take a look back at a memorable year of rugby by compiling our top 30 players of the last 12 months.

Munster v Leinster - One of rugby's fiercest rivalries

Munster will host Leinster this afternoon in the St.Stephen's Day clash at Thomond Park, with both teams lying in second place in their respective Pro14 conferences.

Social media video highlights 2017

We look back at some of the social media video highlights and lowlights from 2017 including the Lions tour, Georgian Rugby and some future stars.

Video - Richie McCaw calling the RWC2015 is must watch stuff

World Rugby had a particularly excellent Yuletide treat up their sleeve this Christmas for rugby fans.

Larmour shreds Munster with try of the season contender

Leinster ran out 24-34 winners against Munster at Thomond Park this afternoon, but the game will be remembered for this piece of magic from 20-year-old fullback Jordan Larmour.

Cardiff Blues resign former Hurricane

The former Hurricanes midfielder received an extra gift on Christmas Day - a contract extension with the Cardiff Blues, the team he joined in 2015.

Ian Madigan has brilliant Twitter conversation with not so observant rugby fan

One of the enduring qualities of Twitter is that it can pitch average Joe Soaps sports fan into direct dialogues with people of varying degrees of fame, be it sporting or otherwise.

BREAKING: Premiership Christmas lists revealed

With Christmas just days away now, RugbyPass has obtained top secret information from the North Pole, regarding the letters to Santa of several very influential men in the rugby world.

Bok prop calls time on career over neck break fears

Former Springbok prop Julian Redelinghuys has called time on his career after breaking his neck last year.

Saracens ready to snap losing streak – Jim Hamilton

Nobody wants to lose seven games in a row but Saracens will be stronger for coming through this period of adversity and are ready to end the wretched run at Welford Road tomorrow.

Worcester Warriors appoint Solomons as Director of Rugby

Worcester Warriors have today announced that Alan Solomons has signed a contract to become the Club’s permanent Director of Rugby.
The 67-year-old has agreed a two-and-a-half year deal to take over as Director of Rugby from Gary Gold, who will leave the Club at the end of December.

One charge of rape against Ulster star dropped due to forensic evidence

One charge of rape against Ulster centre Stuart Olding has been dropped ahead of trial.

Jim Hamilton’s career began and ended with memorable spells at Leicester Tigers and Saracens, and he believes that both of his former sides will regard their Christmas Eve Aviva Premiership Rugby showdown as ‘must-win’.

Gavin Henson on Cardiff Blues' false promises and a possible coaching career

At 36 years of age, Gavin Henson is certainly in the twilight of rugby playing career but has intimated that he is interested in a future role as a coach.
Henson feels like it would be a position that would come naturally to him, saying, that "it (coaching) might be something I'll probably go down, I naturally do it with the players."

Western Province staff threaten to take strike action

According to reports emerging from Newlands, staff have already decided to boycott the franchise's end of year party, as a means of displaying their unhappiness with the decision to cut year-end bonuses and 2018 wage increases.

Stats show All Blacks are the most ill-disciplined tier one side

When you think All Blacks, ill-discipline isn't the first thing to spring to mind but under Steve Hansens, indiscipline within the side has more than doubled.
Under the reign of Graham Henry, the All Blacks were carded every 338.5 minutes, roughly once every four games or so.

China secures TV deal to broadcast Premiership Rugby

The English Premiership is about to become the first professional club rugby tournament broadcast in China - to a national audience in the millions

Podcast: The Off Season (Part 1)

With Scotty and Mils going on holiday early, James McOnie, Melodie Robinson, and Liam Napier step in to spread the footy cheer with The Off Season. Join them as they look back on the year in international rugby.

Jonny Gray's career tackling success percentage has been calculated and it's ridiculous

Glasgow secondrow Jonny Gray is very good at tackling it has emerged. Just how good he is at tackling however, is really quite remarkable.

Munster retain the services of CJ Stander

CJ Stander has signed a three year IRFU contract to remain at Munster until June 2021.

Toulouse, Lyon chasing down two fringe All Blacks - reports

Reports coming out of France suggests that two former All Blacks are very much of the radar of French clubs as 2017 comes to a close.

Former Union player amputates finger to speed up recovery for NRL season

A former rugby union age-grade star has taken the rather extreme step of having his finger amputated so that he can make a faster return to fitness ahead of the beginning of the NRL season.

Wasps issue injury update and it's grim reading for England fans

Director of rugby Dai Young has issued an injury update ahead of this Saturday’s Aviva Premiership meeting with Gloucester at the Ricoh Arena.

Former All Black named as 'worst signing of 2017' in Top 14

Amid reports of a flurry of All Blacks being targetted by French clubs, it seems not all ex-All Blacks have lived up to lofty expectations as French newspaper Mid Olympique released it's worst signings of 2017.

Watch: Five of the best in 2017 - Kiwis in Europe

Some are big names, some aren't - and some even ended up making the test side of the country they've ended up in

Analysis: Marcus Smith vs. Christian Lealiifano - The English prodigy against the Wallaby

The 29-year-old Lealiifano put together a vintage man-of-the-match performance in Ulster’s win, but not to be outdone, the 18-year-old Marcus Smith fought back with some big plays of his own – making for an intriguing encounter between two 10’s.

Jarryd Hayne accused of rape during time at 49ers

NRL superstar and crosscode athlete Jarryd Hayne has had a rape accusation levelled against it has emerged.

'We can't go on like this' - report could seal Noves' fate

The future of France coach Guy Noves could be decided before Christmas, with Bordeaux's Jacques Brunel reportedly ready to take over if needed

Jonny Gray ends speculation on his future with Glasgow

Jonny Gray has signed a new two-year contract with Glasgow.

A new ball has had a remarkable statistical effect on the Pro14

Try-scoring and goal-kicking success rates are up right across the Guinness PRO14 since the introduction of a new ball - it has been revealed.

Back to basics for Waratahs

“That's the main area we recognised wasn't good enough last year, not just at our club but all of Australian rugby.

Banned - Cian Healy decision cold comfort for Exeter Chiefs fans

Leinster Rugby prop Cian Healy has been suspended for three weeks following his yellow card independent Disciplinary Hearing.

Clermont Auvergne on the verge of signing All Black

A four-test All Black is on the verge of signing with current Top 14 champions Clermont Auvergne, French newspaper La Montagne reports.

Irish eyes smiling again in Europe - Andy Goode

It’s been a while since they tasted success in Europe’s elite competition but Irish eyes were smiling at the weekend and they might just be again in Bilbao in May.

Johan Ackermann and son Ruan implicated in late night bust-up

A Premiership head coach and his son have both been implicated to have been involved in a fight which took place in the early hours of Sunday morning.
The altercation allegedly took place at the 21 Club on Regent Street in Cheltenham, shortly after Gloucester's win over Zebre on Saturday evening.

Alex Lewington set to move to Premiership London rivals

A product of the Leicester Tigers academy, Lewington joined London Irish in 2013 and has made a significant impact for the Exiles, with his try-scoring exploits quickly cementing him as a fan favourite at the Madejski.

Citing commission confirm decision on Leinster's Cian Healy

Cian Healy has today been cited following an incident with Exeter Chief's Luke Cowan-Dickie at the weekend.
Healy made contact with the face of Cowan-Dickie with his forearm during their Champions Cup clash on Saturday.

Wayne Barnes to break Aviva Premiership record this Friday

Wayne Barnes will break the record for most Aviva Premiership Rugby matches refereed on Friday when he takes charge of Worcester Warriors' home clash with London Irish.
Barnes, 38, currently sits atop the all-time list alongside Chris White on 190 matches refereed in English rugby's top League, the latter having set the mark between 1997 and 2011.

Gloucester rugby release statement on Johan and Ruan Ackermann

Following an accusation regarding Johan Ackermann and Ruan Ackermann Gloucester Rugby have today confirmed that in fact, an incident did take place in Cheltenham last weekend.

Highlights - European Champions Cup

The European Champions Cup goes into the Christmas break after a bruising round of games across the continent this weekend.

A section of the Leicester Tigers support base has been slammed after referee Mathieu Raynal was subjected to verbal abuse as he exited the pitch at halftime during Leicester's crunch Champions Cup match with Munster at Welford Road last night.

Lacuna in Coetzee's SARU contract means he can't be sacked - reports

The failure to put a performance clause in Alistair Coetzee's contract means that the task of removing the Springboks headcoach could be more be problematic - that's according to reports in a local newspaper in South Africa.

'Jaco Kriel has not signed for Gloucester' - agent

Lions looseforward Jaco Kriel is not coming to Gloucester - that's according to the agents who look after Kriel's affairs who have branded the move 'simply media speculation' on Twitter.

Concussed England flanker Sam Underhill still 'really symptomatic'

Things are not looking particularly good for England backrow Sam Underhill, who has been described by Bath headcoach Todd Blackadder as still really 'symptomatic' regarding his latest concussive episode.

Welsh international Hibbard follows Moriarty with Gloucester exit

Gloucester Rugby have confirm that their Wales and British & Irish Lion hooker, Richard Hibbard, will leave the club at the end of the season to pursue a playing opportunity in Wales - namely the Dragons.

Ex-NRL player commits to rugby

Former NRL winger and Wallabies outside back has signed a new two-year deal, re-committing to rugby until 2019.

A genuinely 'Possible Dragons XV' to breathe fire in the Pro14 next season

Dragons head coach Bernard Jackman is building a team ahead of the 2018/19 season that could potentially rival the best in the Pro14.

Julian Savea says shock switch to League still possible

All Black winger Julian Savea says he hasn't closed the door on the possibility of one day playing Rugby League. Savea is quoted as saying: "It's always been in the back of my mind."

Centre's fractured jaw the latest injury blow for Glasgow

Glasgow's Sam Johnson will be sidelined for at least 10 weeks after undergoing surgery on a fractured jaw.

The RugbyPass Champions Cup XV - Round 4

The European Champions Cup pools really began to take shape this week, as the “double header” rounds, perhaps the most tactically interesting two-week slot in the competition, were wrapped up.

Kiwis carving up the north - Tigers missing Veainu

The Tigers may have missed fullback Telusa Veainu, after the former Canterbury wing, who has been great value for the Midlands club, broke his jaw last weekend.

Jaco Kriel pens three year deal with Gloucester - reports

Lions standout Jaco Kriel has been linked with a move Gloucester in the Aviva Premiership - according to reports.

After receiving a yellow card in Harlequins European Champions Cup match with Ulster in Ravenhill last night, Kyle Sinckler has reacted to a tirade of social media criticism.

Tasman Mako nab Chiefs winger

The Tasman Mako have found their replacement for winger James Lowe, signing one of the talented Chiefs outside backs.

Why 2017 was the watershed year of women’s footy

NZ Rugby needs to act, and act fast. While it is financially the most dominant code in New Zealand, it could lose the attention of potential athletes fast if they can see that there’s money to be made elsewhere.

SA Rugby seek legal advice to remove Coetzee

The immediate future for Allister Coetzee doesn't look particularly bright today after it was reported that SA Rugby sought legal advice before formerly removing the head coach from his role.

Lima Sopoaga defends Sonny Bill Williams following controversy

Lima Sopoaga has lept to the defence of fellow All Black Sonny Bill Williams after a recent Instagram photo stirred up controversy online.
Williams came under attack when he uploaded the below photo of himself and his wife Alana, with the couples eldest daughter Alana, driving around the streets of Rarotunga in a convertible car.

Peter O’Mahony commits his future to Ireland and Munster

The IRFU and Munster Rugby today announced that Peter O’Mahony has signed a three-year contract with the IRFU which will see him continue with Munster until at least 2021.

Five up-and-coming coaches to keep an eye on

In the wake of Jim Mallinder’s departure from Northampton Saints on Tuesday, the rumour mill has whirred into action around the coaches that could potentially fill the void left at Franklin’s Gardens.

Wasps confirm the signing of Cardiff Blues head coach

Wasps have today confirmed that they will expand their coaching team next season, with current Cardiff Blues head coach Danny Wilson and Nottingham Rugby head coach Ian Costello set to arrive in Coventry during pre-season.

Club by club - How many head coaches has the Premiership had in 10 years?

After a string of disappointing results, Director of Rugby Jim Mallinder has left Northampton Saints in a move that, depending on who you ask is either long overdue or unfairly harsh.

IRFU put together monster deal to keep Tadhg Furlong - reports

The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) are putting together a massive deal in a bid to keep Tadhg Furlong it has been reported.

Harlequins flanker Renaldo Bothma has set himself the daunting challenge of replacing Jacques Burger as the face of Namibian rugby in Europe and guiding his country to qualification for the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.

The Black Ferns take NZ's top team award

The Black Ferns have been named New Zealand's team of the year for the first time at the sport's annual award night in Auckland.

The 1014 Rugby Awards - World XV 2017

The lads from the 1014 give us their rundown on who has impressed in 2017.

The Northern Migration: Conrad Smith

James McOnie spoke to Smith on a 2-degree day in the city of Pau (pop. 80,000), in the south of France.

Analysis: How Toulon use their jumbo-sized midfielders Ma'a Nonu and Mathieu Bastareaud

Toulon rely on the brutal running of Bastareaud, and compliment that with the full range of Nonu’s attacking game. This is how they play them.

Rugby Australia to bid for RWC 2021 & 2027

Chairman Cameron Clyne has announced Rugby Australia will bid for both the men's & women's Rugby World Cups.

Kieran Read to undergo significant spinal surgery

All Blacks captain Kieran Read will undergo significant spinal surgery this coming Saturday and is set to miss a large chunk of the Super Rugby season.

Dragons sign Scarlets prop, Cardiff sign Bristol flanker

Both the Dragons and Scarlets have announced respective signings this morning.

Mourad Boudjellal 'looking to offload Toulon'

Mourad Boudjellal is again looking for a buyer for Top 14 club Toulon, according to reports in the French media

Watch: Stuart Lancaster - 'You can't make the pain go away'

A lot can happen in two years and it's roughly that long ago that Stuart Lancaster was in the Twickenham stands, watching the home team, England, become the first team to leave their own Rugby World Cup at the group stage.
As a proud Englishman, he would have been devastated and that’s before you add in the fact that he was the coach.

Club 140kg - Fifteen of the heaviest rugby players on the planet right now

It will surprise few that as the average size of Rugby Union player increases, so too have the outliers on the top end of the weighing scale.

Saints fans take to Twitter to question why Dorian West is still in job

Pressure is mounting on Northampton Saints forward's coach Dorian West to follow in the footsteps of Director of Rugby Jim Mallinder and exit the troubled club.

A clear favourite has emerged to replace Jim Mallinder - reports

It's been reported that former Bath and Toulon headcoach Mike Ford is the early favourite to take over from Jim Mallinder as Director of Rugby at Northampton Saints.

Rookie voted best Australian Super Rugby player

In a small consolation for the exiled Western Force, one of their rookies has been voted Australia's best Super Rugby player in 2017.

Watch: Four players that smashed it at the Cape Town Sevens

The Cape Town Sevens showcased some of the outrageous highlights that you can only find in the abbreviated form of the game.

English clubs will bounce back from worst ever weekend in Europe – Andy Goode

Saracens’ record European Cup defeat in their controversially rearranged fixture against Clermont may have capped off the worst weekend in the history of the competition for English clubs but they’ll still be a force in the knockout stages.

Charles Piutau confident about representing Tonga at 2019 RWC

Charles Piutau is widely regarded as one of the most talented backs in world rugby and was widely expected to go on and win many more All Blacks caps than his current tally of sixteen.

Confirmed: Northampton Saints release statement on Jim Mallinder

Having taken the reins at Franklin’s Gardens in 2007, Mallinder was the longest-serving director of rugby in the Aviva Premiership, but due to the recent string of results the Saints board agreed that a change in management was in the best interest of the club.

What's next for Allister Coetzee

Allister Coetzee could be about to learn his fate this week as SA Rugby's executive council meet this week to conduct a review of the Springboks 2017 season.
Coetzee’s tenure started after the 2015 Rugby World Cup and has been blighted by a number of humiliating defeats, including their biggest ever defeat in Albany against the All Blacks and their 38-3 hammering at the hands of Ireland early in November.

Wales receive yet another massive injury setback

Bath Rugby have today confirmed that Taulupe Faletau suffered a grade three medial knee ligament injury against Toulon on Saturday.
Wales who will start the competition without Faletau's fellow Lions teammates Sam Warburton and Jonathan Davies, will be concerned by the growing list of casualties.

Saracens vs Clermont rescheduled fixture time announced

Following heavy snowfall over the weekend, Saracens were forced to postpone their third round fixture with ASM Clermont and that rescheduled time has been announced this morning.

Kiwis carving up the north - La Rochelle hot to trot

Ahead of the Capetown Sevens World Rugby out together this a video analysis piece that explains the importance of restarts.

When no one would help a girl being attacked, a rugby player stepped up

A 21-year-old rugby player is being hailed a hero after he intervened where others wouldn't - saving a Muslim teenager from a racist attack on a Vancouver train this week.

Not to be bested by Ashton, Carlin Isles drops massive Cape Town blooper

Chris Ashton's shanked kick in the Champions Cup may have made the headlines in Europe, but down in Cape Town it was the World's Fastest rugby player taking home the honours in the blooper department.

What’s in a name? That other All Black team that isn’t very good

It’s more than a little galling to watch a team called the All Blacks get beaten 22-0 by the United States - but that's what happened last night.

England to World Rugby: the Pacific Island mess is your problem, not ours

The RFU has voiced its opinion on the ongoing matter of Pacific Island rugby's financial instability, calling on World Rugby to take urgent action.

Video - Behind the scenes at the Dubai 7s

Armed only with an iPhone, Liam Dunseath - AKA Suzy - ventured behind scenes at the Emirate Airlines Dubai Sevens, possibly the most colourful stage on the World Series circuit.

SARU green light two South African teams for Anglo-Welsh Cup venture

The South African Rugby Union (SARU) have decided today that the Griquas and Pumas will be the two teams put forward to join the Anglo-Welsh Cup in the 2018-19 season, per RugbyPass sources.

Dragons sign Bristol versatile back

Head Coach Bernard Jackman has confirmed Jordan Williams will become the latest player to return to Wales to join the Dragons ahead of the 2018/19 campaign on a two-year contract.
The versatile Williams – who can play at full back, wing or fly half - was selected for the Wales 2014 tour to South Africa as well as previously playing in the Wales under 20s team that finished runners up in the 2013 Junior World Championship.

The saga revolving the perilous finances of Samoa (and indeed other Pacific Island unions) rumbled on this week, as the RFU issued a strongly worded statement denying that they should be responsible for clearing up what they see as very much a World Rugby mess.

The 1014 explore how the Six Nations teams developed during the Autumn Internationals.

The 1014 Podcast: November Tests - Full Review - Part 1 of 2

The 1014 explore how the Southern Hemisphere and some Tier 2 teams developed through the November Tests

Why the Blues should sign Quade Cooper

Could the pairing of Super Rugby's most enigmatic player with its most frustrating team be a match made in heaven?

Japan flyhalf Kosei Ono loses front teeth in Top League clash

Former Japan international and current Suntory Sungoliath flyhalf Kosei Ono has lost his two front teeth following a collision in the Japan Top League during Suntory's clash with Kinetsu.

Murphy leaving Leinster for another Irish province

There are reports emerging this morning that a Leinster and Ireland player is on the move after finding his place in the pecking order fall considerably.

Toulon owner lashes out at Dan Carter in newspaper column

The always outspoken Mourad Boudjellal has started a new column with Eurosport this week and already has taken aim at one of the best players to grace the rugby field.

Maro Itoje in race to be fit for Six Nations

Maro Itoje is in serious doubt for England's first game of the Six Nations after Saracens confirmed he suffered a broken jaw in a game at the weekend.

Watch: Spanish rugby's top tier delivers breathless finale

Were not even fully sure what's going on half the time in the below clip and there are definitely more than a few questionable refereeing decisions.
What we are sure of is that it's immensely entertaining and unpredictable.

Wasps captain signs new deal with club

It has been announced today that the Wasps captain has signed a new contract with the club, to the delight of Dai Young.

Sale Sharks winger, Byron McGuigan, will face a disciplinary hearing, on paper, on Wednesday 6 December, after being dismissed from the field following two yellow against Worcester Warriors on Friday evening.

Bath charged by Premiership Rugby

South African Varsity Cup to trial new 'innovative' rules

The Varsity Cup Competition, contested by top rugby-playing universities in South Africa, is set to trial new rules next year. These new rules will allow captains to remove any two nominated backline players from the opposition for a three-minute period.

More former All Blacks call for Pacific Island eligibility rule change

Momentum is growing among former All Blacks to lobby World Rugby to allow them to represent the Pacific Island nations of their heritage.

England not playing in Pacific Islands 'embarrassing and wrong' - Sir Clive Woodward

Former World Cup winning coach Sir Clive Woodward has blasted the RFU for being part of the financial problem affecting Pacific Island rugby.

Former Wallabies take to Twitter to protest Quade Cooper's treatment

A number of former Wallabies have expressed their discontent with the treatment of Quade Cooper and Nick Frisby at the Queensland Reds.

Veteran All Black set to replace Vermeulen at Toulon

Reports emerging this morning from France suggest that Toulon could be about to lose a number of key players, including powerful backrower Duane Vermeulen.

Conor O’Shea accepts his Italy team will need England to suffer a serious drop in performance to give the Azzuri any chance of pulling off a shock win against England

"Behave as if your mother was with you" - Welsh Police Commissioner

A Welsh Police Commissioner has called on the fans attending this weekend fixture between Wales and South Africa to behave themselves following a number of reported incidents after last weeks encounter with New Zealand in Cardiff.

Davies pens new deal with Scarlets

Scarlets openside flanker James Davies, has put pen to paper extending his stay with his home region.

Ten top talents to watch in the U18s English Premiership

The U18 Premiership season begins in two weeks’ time and it will pitch the best players from academies up and down England against one another.

Revealed: New NZ Super Rugby jerseys

Good news for everyone stuck for gift ideas this Christmas - the new range of Kiwi Super Rugby jerseys have come out.

Widespread outcry over 'wrist tape words' ban

"I think the whole process that's been around it has been poor," he said. "It hasn't gone out for consultation and that's a big problem. It makes the game and themselves look a bit stupid."

The Northern Migration: Nick Evans

In the first part of a series on New Zealanders playing in the Northern Hemisphere, James McOnie catches up with former All Black first five and fullback Nick Evans.

First O'Mahony - now CJ Stander's future at club questioned

New Munster Heach Coach Johann Van Graan tenure at Munster has started with some tough player contract headaches, as a second provincial lynch pin's future at the club appears threatened.

Trio of Ireland internationals extend stays at Ulster

Ireland internationals Luke Marshall, Rob Herring and Kieran Treadwell have signed three-year contract extensions with Ulster Rugby, which will keep them at Kingspan Stadium until the summer of 2021.

Ospreys and Scarlets swap centres in Welsh mega deal

Ospreys Rugby are have announced the signing of Wales and Scarlets centre, Scott Williams, on a three-year deal. Conversely, Kieron Fonotia will move to Scarlets from the Ospreys.

Watch: Welsh players attempt to translate South African slang

With the Autumn Internationals drawing to a close, we await the final hurrah from two teams who seem to be eternally underwhelming at this time of year.

Fijian duo standing trial after night out goes horribly wrong

Fiji rugby stars Josaia Raisuqe and Waisea Nayacalevu have gone on trial in France over a drunken brawl outside a Paris nightspot, with Raisuqe answering charges of sexual assault.

Former Highlander suspended following alleged cocaine party

Following an internal investigation, disciplinary action has been taken by Edinburgh Rugby against John Hardie for gross misconduct.

Doug Howlett advised Irish club to sign Julian Savea

“I’ve tried to talk them into signing Julian Savea and getting him up here but at this stage, it’s not something we are looking for,”

Tongan revolution continues - world's highest paid player in sights for World Cup

Having seemingly taken inspiration from their rugby league cousins, the Tongan rugby union team are looking to acquire the services of a couple of former All Blacks.

Watchability Rankings November 2017

While the Autumn Internationals dominated rugby headlines in recent weeks, we thought we’d cast the net a little wider and include them in our breakdown of the must-watch sides from November.

Saints resign front-row duo Waller and Haywood

Northampton Saints have today announced that front-row duo Alex Waller and Mikey Haywood have re-signed with the club.

When is a maul not your maul?

Following some confusion over two almost identical refereeing decisions at the weekend we decided to have a look ourselves and see if we could make sense of the calls. Always good to refresh your knowledge of rugby laws.

Kiwis carving up the north - Warriors on the warpath

The Glasgow Warriors, coached by Dave Rennie, continue on their merry way in the PRO14.

Historic and deserved, the Black Ferns success at the World Rugby Awards is a wake-up call to global sport

Let’s just say it out loud for those in the back of the room: World Rugby just handed its Team of the Year honour to the Black Ferns.

Watch: All Black season review 2017

The All Blacks' 33-18 win over Wales capped off a very interesting year for the world champs, who had some massive highs but also showed just a few chinks in their armour.

Rival club preparing huge deal for Semi Radradra - reports

Bordeaux have made an audacious bid to tempt Semi Radradra away from Top 14 rivals Toulon, according to reports in the French rugby press

Video - Jones beats Hansen to Coach of the Year accolade

Eddie Jones taking home World Rugby's coach of the year accolade beating off both Steven Hansen and Warren Gatland on his way to the award.

Ross Moriarty Gloucester exit and new club confirmed

Gloucester Rugby have announced that forward Ross Moriarty will leave the club at the end of the season.

Ireland set to face world champion All Blacks

It has been announced today that Ireland will welcome New Zealand and Argentina to the Aviva Stadium in preparation for the 2019 World Cup.

Thomas du Toit set to become one of the heaviest Springboks ever

Thomas 'Tank' du Toit is set to become one of the heaviest Springboks ever after he was called in to provide frontrow cover this week.

Sam Warburton's act of kindness to animal will warm your heart

A moment of kindness by Sam Warburton has given the internet paws for thought this weekend and will no doubt brighten the day of anyone who's had a ruff weekend.

Rieko Ioane eyes position switch for All Blacks

Rieko Ioane, the world breakthrough player of the year award winner has expressed a desire to return to the position he played as a schoolboy and for the Blues this year.

Watch: Wallabies season review 2017

There were glimmers of hope of a new beginning as the Wallabies progressively improved throughout the Bledisloe Cup, but it was a season struggling against the more competitive teams.

All Black player ratings v Wales

The All Blacks closed out their year in Cardiff with an entertaining 33-18 win over Wales. Here's how the players rated.

Fans view - Scotland's demolition job

We sent Scotland fan Iain Mundy along to Murrayfield on Saturday to witness their momentous win of the Wallabies. Here's his match report.

Five Takeaways from the November Tests and an International stock check

Barring one last Test between Wales and South Africa, the autumn internationals are now in the books and being pored over from Edinburgh to Auckland, as the power shift from the south to the north continues to gather pace.

Player Ratings: Ireland against Argentina

Time to take look back at how the boys in green fared against Argentina following their victory in the final autumn international at the Aviva Stadium

Video - Steve Tandy and Twitter react to record Ospreys defeat

Fresh pressure has been heaped on Ospreys coach Steve Tandy after the troubled Welsh region shipped a record defeat at home to Glasgow in the Pro14.

Kiwis carving up the north - Nanai-Williams experiment on hold

The jury is still out on whether Tim Nanai-Williams will make it as an international No 10.

Results are in at the World Rugby Awards

The results are in from the World Rugby Awards and it's no surprise to see New Zealand dominant in Team and Player of the Year categories. The only real surprise might be that Steve Hansen was pipped by Eddie Jones.

Marcus Smith nominated for first major accolade of career

Harlequins have announced that Marcus Smith has been nominated for BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year for 2017.

Player Ratings: England vs Samoa

England wrapped up their autumn series today with a 48-14 victory over an outclassed Samoa side at Twickenham, securing their third win from as many games in the month of November.

Watch: Kepu sees red after reckless challenge in Murrayfield

As Scotland ran in eight tries against the Australia this afternoon the loss will be even harder to swallow for Sekope Kepu who was sent off just before the half

Wallabies player ratings v Scotland

The Wallabies have ended their season with a heavy 53-24 defeat at Murrayfield.

All Black finish season on a high

The All Blacks ended their long season with a 33-18 victory in Cardiff over Wales, sealed by three tries in the second half.

'Public has lost faith in refs' - Jonathan Kaplan

The former South African test referee claims that 'public mood has shifted from acceptance to frustration, both over the decisions made and the manner in which they have been reached.'

Watch: Tongan Thor to debut, and a look at the Wallabies' young guns

Michael Cheika has always aimed to breed new life into his team with young and exciting players.

Blow for Scotland with late injury withdrawl

Scotland have received a blow this morning after one of their centres was unable to overcome a head knock from last weeks encounter with the All Blacks.

Watch: First interview with new Munster head coach

In just his first week in charge Johann van Grann has given his first interview as Munster's new head coach.

Video: This is what a combined Leicester Bath XV would look like

This video from Bath Rugby shows what a mixed international XV could look like with players from their squad and the Leicester Tigers pack.

Will Steve Hansen stay on as All Black coach?

NZ Rugby CEO Steve Tew has confirmed that the All Black head coaching job will be discussed at their December board meeting.

The night Beaudenism became a religion

The dawn of the Barrett era took many by surprise. No established player has had such a rapid ‘second’ ascension and change of public perception as much as he has had in the last year.

Gatland vs Hansen: Forget the headlines about a rivalry, because there isn’t one

It almost seems fitting that this season is going to end where it began - with Steve Hansen facing off against Warren Gatland.

Eddie Jones names English team to play Samoa

Jones has made nine changes to the starting line-up that beat Australia 30-6 last weekend at Twickenham Stadium.

Marty Moore leaving Wasps to return to Ireland

Wasps have today confirmed that Marty Moore will return to Ireland.

Henshaw ruled out as Ireland name squad for Argentina clash

Robbie Henshaw is the biggest omission from Ireland's matchday squad against Argentina after picking up an injury as Joe Schmit announced his team this afternoon.

WRU have been out bid for Ross Moriarty - Gatland

Wales headcoach Warren Gatland has revealed that the WRU's Dual National Contract bid for Ross Moriarty has been bested - currently at least - by another bidder.

All Blacks name team for Wales encounter

Sam Whitelock will captain New Zealand on Saturday as they take on Wales in the Millenium Stadium as Kieran Read drops out due to injury.

Even by his standards, Mourad Boudjellal's latest tantrum is particularly childish

Toulon boss Mourad Boudjellal declared war on Sunday matches after watching his side slump to a 40-29 home defeat against Racing 92 at the weekend.

Kieran Read to miss Wales test

"It's probably associated with [the hip flexor] ... he's bent over today and hurt it. He's in his bed and not very mobile at the moment," coach Steve Hansen said.

Cheika avoids sanctions for outburst

Cheika was captured on the live broadcast saying "f...ing cheats'' after Australia captain Michael Hooper was sin-binned toward the end of the first half of Saturday's (Sunday NZ time) game.

Crusaders release statement on 'super star' Ronan O'Gara

The BNZ Crusaders have confirmed that they have signed up the services of former Ireland international, Ronan O’Gara, for the 2018 Super Rugby season.

The 1014 Interview: Super Rugby CEO - Avan Lee

The 1014 Rugby interview Avan Lee, CEO of the Hurricanes in New Zealand. We ask Avan how the Hurricanes hold onto the 'Rock Stars' of World Rugby: the Barrett Brothers, the Savea Brothers, Dane Coles and more.

Northampton Saints and George North release statement on winger's shock exit

Both Northampton Saints and George North have released statements following today's announcement by the WRU that winger was returning to Wales.

Analysis: How the All Blacks unleashed Sonny Bill Williams against Scotland

The reality is the role Williams plays in the All Blacks midfield has changed. He is being asked to do different things, most of which go unnoticed.

Brumbies sign Wallaby lock's gigantic 6'10, 127kg twin

The Brumbies have announced the signing of 6'10 and 127kg lock Richie Arnold, twin brother of current Brumbie Rory, on a two year deal from the Western Force.

Edinburgh land former New Zealand under 20 playmaker

Edinburgh have today announced the signing of former Auckland Blues fly-half Simon Hickey on a two-year deal. The 23-year-old who currently lines out for Bordeaux Bègles will join the Scottish club at the end of the season.

Former Wallaby captain announces retirement from all forms of rugby

Former Australian captain Stephen Moore has announced he is retiring from all forms of rugby following the Wallabies clash with Scotland on Saturday at Murrayfield.

Scarlets Injury SOS brings former Welsh international out of retirement

Former Wales and British and Irish Lion could be in line to make a comeback, having retired at the end of last season, as he has been named in the Scarlets squad travelling to South Africa.

Renewed interest for Glasgow Warriors lock Gray

It is being reported that Championship side Bristol have put an offer forward to Glasgow Warriors lock Jonny Gray leaving his future at the Club uncertain.

Allister Coetzee's future in jeopardy

Speculation is continuing to mount in South Africa that current head coach Allister Coetzee could be out of a job next month due to a performance clause in his contract.

England Squad Update

Eddie Jones has retained 25 players to prepare for England’s Old Mutual Wealth Series match against Samoa at Twickenham Stadium.

Savea third All Black stricken by Mumps

"He's in his room and has been in isolation for a few days. He has been fully vaccinated previously as a kid, but clearly, he has got something."

Kieran Read battling injury to face Wales

All Blacks captain Kieran Read has been given extra recovery time in order to be fit for the test match against Wales, missing the first training session of the week.

The ridiculous Toulon backline that started vs Racing...but still lost

If there was any lingering doubt as to how insanely stacked Toulon's squad is, one needn't have looked further than their starting team for today's game with Racing.

Welsh great 'wonders if Wales are ready to face New Zealand'

One of Wales' greatest ever players has issued a dire warning to his old team in the wake of their uninspiring 13-6 win over Georgia.

All Black indiscipline revealed

Want to know just how much the All Blacks infringe? Have a look at these numbers and see the proof.

Scotland need wins, not glorious defeats – Andy Goode

The All Blacks got out of jail on Saturday and you couldn’t help but be impressed by Scotland and the whole atmosphere at Murrayfield but this side must have more ambition and need to turn those glorious defeats into victories.

EXCLUSIVE: Details of England women's lucrative new deal revealed

England’s women’s players have struck a new new deal thrashed with the RFU after their one year full time contracts will controversially scrapped earlier in the year.

Underhill to be rested after picking up second concussion this season

Eddie Jones is to rest backrow Sam Underhill for England's clash with Samoa this weekend.

Michael Hooper has a new unwelcome record

Australian captain Michael Hooper broke the record for most yellow cards received by an international player during his sides 30-6 loss to England at Twickenham over the weekend.

Is it time England fans started valuing this 'unfashionable' trio of players?

As trios go, these three players take an inordinate amount of flak from rugby fans and even some sections of the media.

All Blacks - player ratings v Scotland

The All Black survived a scare against Scotland at Murrayfield today, here's how the players fared individually.

Kiwis carving up the north: Heem brings the power

Bryce Heem seems to have found a home at Sixways.

Watch: Manu Samoa v Manu Romania

One international that flew under the radar over the weekend was Manu Samoa’s 17-13 loss to Romania in Bucharest.

The ridiculous Toulon backline that started today...but still lost

If there was any lingering doubt as to how insanely stacked Toulon's squad is, one needn't have looked further than their starting team for today's game with Racing.

Confirmed - Finn Russell is leaving Glasgow Warriors

Glasgow Warriors have confirmed that fly-half Finn Russell will leave the club at the end of the season.

Confirmed: Shields to Wasps, potential England call up

Brad Shields announced today he will be leaving New Zealand Rugby at the conclusion of the Hurricanes' 2018 Super Rugby campaign.

If it is true that Brad Shields said ‘no thanks’ to a stopgap spot in the All Blacks on their Northern Tour in the hope he can secure a World Cup role with the England national side, then who in their right mind could blame him? Not me, that’s

England Player Ratings vs Australia

England blew the cobwebs and some of their lingering criticisms away with a 30-6 victory over Australia today, their fifth over the Wallabies during the Eddie Jones tenure, in a game where the scoreline certainly flattered the home side.

Wallabies - Player ratings

The Wallabies good recent run of form came to an at a very dreary Twickenham. Here's how the players rated.

Brave Scotland almost topple All Blacks

Scotland came out firing today at Murrayfield, putting together one of their best performances of recent years despite losing to the All Blacks 22-17.

Steve Diamond banned for this post match interview

Following the match Sale Sharks v Exeter Chiefs on Friday 27 October 2017, Diamond gave a broadcast interview during which he allegedly failed to respect the authority of the match referee, Craig Maxwell-Keys.

England winger faster than Usain Bolt

As England get set to face Australia in Twickenham this Saturday, head Coach Eddie Jones will be happy to know he has selected possibly the fastest player in test rugby, maybe even the world, Jonny May.

Five Scottish players to watch on Saturday

After 30 winless games stretching back to 1905, Scotland find themselves once again hoping to defeat world champions New Zealand as they welcome them to Edinburgh on Saturday evening.

Want to help Pacific Island rugby? Give the players the power to choose

While World Rugby revealed a bit more of its agenda than it probably wanted to, the overshadowing of the real problem in the game has been palpable.

Flanker snubs All Blacks for England opportunity - report

Hurricanes and Wellington loose forward Brad Shields has apparently spurned the chance for an All Black call up, according to The Telegraph.

Scots skipper on All Blacks: 'We have looked at how to beat them'

Scotland captain John Barclay reckons it's not worth dwelling on the past matches.

England name team to face the Wallabies

Jones has made four changes to the side that defeated Argentina 21-8 on Saturday.

Head of IRFU fires shots at Wales and Scotland over RWC betrayal

The head of the IRFU, Philip Browne, has thrown serious shade at Scotland and Wales over their lack of support for Ireland's RWC2023 bid.

Tom Croft retires with 'immediate effect'

Former England, Lions and current Leicester Tigers backrow Tom Croft has retired with immediate effect.

Springboks name side to face France

There have been several changes to the Springboks side to face France at the weekend.

All Blacks name strongest possible side for Murrayfield clash

Steve Hansen has named his strongest possible side for the All Blacks' clash with Scotland on Saturday.

An Irish politician's summation of the country's failed bid to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup has gone viral today.

SBW receives apology from ref over yellow card

'The penalty was obviously awarded, but he said he made that mistake by sending me off.'

The Japanese club Dan Carter is likely to join named

All Blacks legend Dan Carter is set to finish his career in Japan and this club will give him the chance to add another winners medal to the collection.

Fiji name easily the heaviest backline ever assembled in international rugby

Fiji have named what is almost certainly the heaviest backline ever assembled in international rugby for their clash with Ireland at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin this weekend.

Cheika accuses England of deliberate late shots

Michael Cheika has started the war-of-words before Saturday's test against England, claiming that in last year's fixtures against England, his halves pairing have been targeted with late tackles.

Super Rugby to hit the USA

"We are excited that rugby fans in the United States will get the opportunity to enjoy and witness Super Rugby first hand."

Live Streaming - Rugby World Cup 2023 host selection announcement

Today the World Rugby Council appoints the Rugby World Cup 2023 host.

France announced as hosts of Rugby World Cup 2023

World Rugby described the process as transparent, objective, professional, but there will be a lot of questions given that an independently commissioned report had suggested that South Africa should be awarded the competition.

Video - 'Some level of embarrassment for World Rugby' - BOD

The decision to award Rugby World Cup 2023 to France was always going to leave a lot of noses out of joint, not least the Irish bid organisers and participants.

Will the Wallabies unleash the Tongan Thor?

YouTube sensation Taniela Tupou, known as the Tongan Thor, will be residentially qualified to play for the Wallabies next week in time for the November 25 Test against Scotland.

The Six Nations is what we need - Georgian coach

Rapidly improving Georgia's Kiwi coach Milton Haig has once again raised the question of whether the Lelos should be included into an expanded Six Nations competition.

Analysis: Why the Wallabies need to play Kurtley Beale at 12 against England

With Folau rested for the end of year tour, Beale has been playing fullback. However, if Australia is going to reverse their recent results against England they need to play Beale at 12.

Irreplaceable Farrell sees stock soar in his absence – Andy Goode

They say you don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone and that was definitely the case with English rugby and Owen Farrell at the weekend.

With just under ten minutes to play, Ireland held a 17-3 lead over South Africa. Ireland had worked into a dominant position in the match but needed to land a knockout blow.

Rugby Rewind - England vs the Wallabies, 13th November 2010

This autumn’s Old Mutual Wealth series continues this weekend, with England taking on Australia at Twickenham on Saturday in a hotly anticipated match up.

Bath prop Auterac set to leave for Premiership rivals

The transfer season is beginning to ramp up in the northern hemisphere and the next name that is set to hit the rugby headlines is Bath’s Nick Auterac.

Update - Eddie Jones names 25 retained players for Wallabies test

Eddie Jones has retained 25 players to prepare for England’s Old Mutual Wealth Series match against Australia at Twickenham Stadium.

Los Angeles to host Super Rugby match

"We are excited that rugby fans in the United States will get the opportunity to enjoy and witness Super Rugby first hand."

The Springboks are the new France

Everything was going well after the heroic loss to the All Blacks in Cape Town, then they go to Dublin and get hosed by the Irish.

Who's got the worst union in World Rugby? Part 1 - Samoa

But to those with experience on the ground in Samoa, the story is one more of corruption and mismanagement

BREAKING: Harry Thacker is set to leave Leicester Tigers

With a perfect record of eight wins from eight games, Pat Lam’s Bristol are looking in good shape to return the to Premiership at the first time of asking and their hopes of maintaining that potential Premiership status have been boosted by the signing of Leicester Tigers hooker

Dan Carter expected to sign with Japanese Top League club

Dan Carter is expected to finish his playing career in Japan next year, according to French reports.

Eddie Jones moved from defence to attack better than his players today as he dealt with the fall-out from the television pictures of his expletive filled rant as England struggled to defeat Argentina and an unwelcome intrusion into the team’s inner-sanctum at their five star hotel

Former Wallaby re-signs with Leicester Tigers

The extension, announced on Monday night by Leicester, takes him past the 2019 Rugby World Cup, and with 31 Tests to his name, he is not eligible to play for the Wallabies.

Player ratings: Wallabies v Wales

It was a morale boosting win for the Wallabies in Cardiff as they embark on their three-match tour, here's how the players performed.

All Black player ratings

Here's how the All Blacks fared in this morning's 38-18 victory over France in Paris.

Springbok player ratings

For a second time in 2017 under coach Allister Coetzee, the Springbok conceded a record score - this time, a 3-38 defeat to Ireland.

Steff Evans is an exceptional player, and he will likely have a healthy career at international level, but Wallaby fullback Kurtley Beale taught him a valubale lesson in ball security in Cardiff.

Coles gone for six months

The All Black hooker went down 24 minutes into the test match, after playing a starring role by scoring the first try.

Update - Eddie Jones names 35 man squad for Wallabies Test

England head coach Eddie Jones has called up 35 players ahead of England’s second Test of the Old Mutual Wealth Series against Australia on Saturday 18 November.

Watch: Kiwis carving up the north - international edition

Kiwis are making their presence felt in November via several international teams in the north, and not just the All Blacks and Maori All Blacks.

Watch: Try of the year candidate by Georgian fullback

How is this for pace?

French and at least one Premiership club pursuing O'Mahony - BOD

British and Irish Lions backrow Peter O'Mahony is said to be the target of a number of clubs in France, and at least one Aviva Premiership side.

Match Preview - Wales v Australia

This week marks the New Zealander's tenth anniversary as Wales coach and Gatland would love nothing more than for his side to halt a run of 12 successive losses to the Wallabies, with the last Welsh win against Australia back in 2008.

Player Ratings: England vs Argentina

England got their autumn off to a victorious start at Twickenham earlier today, defeating Argentina, 21-8, in a resilient but rusty performance.

Match Preview: France v All Blacks

France coach Guy Noves caused a stir on Thursday when naming a new and young halfback pairing.

All Blacks 38 France 18 - Match review

It was a game of two halves in Paris today as the All Blacks beat France 38-18.

Show me the money - why an All Blacks/Kangaroos match isn’t that crazy an idea

It’s not quite as far-fetched as you might think, not least because of the $50 million pay-day the game has been said to bring with it.

Ronan O'Gara set for surprise move to New Zealand - Report

Reports in the Irish media this morning suggest that Ronan O'Gara is set for a surprise move to New Zealand where he will take up a coaching position alongside Crusaders coach, Scott Robertson.

Video Analysis: Rugby's 6 Principles of Play demonstrated

Video analyst and rugby coach Liam Dunseath takes a look how Rugby's Principles of Play were demonstrated in last weekend's Barbarians versus All Blacks game in Twickenham.

Watch: The statistical targets England aim to achieve against the Pumas

A fascinating insight into how England's chances of winning break down, defining the nuts and bolts of an English victory.

Rising Star - In Ollie Lawrence, Worcester may have found England's next Manu Tualagi

Marcelo Bosch helped Argentina reach the 2015 World Cup semi-finals but fears the Pumas will not make a similar impact in Japan unless they reverse their decision to ignore European based players.

Analysis: Why Aaron Smith is so important to the All Blacks

With nearly half of all All Black tries this season coming from phase-play, one man is at the heart of driving this statistic.

1014 Podcast: November Tests 2017 - Preview

The 1014 examine the relevance of the 2017 November Tests in the build-up to RWC 2017.

Maori All Blacks upset in Bordeaux

An unfancied French Barbarians outfit has taken down the Maori All Blacks in Bordeaux today, triumphing 19-15 in a scrappy game.

Scotty Stevenson: Samoan Rugby Union disrespects the players and the game

The Samoan Rugby Union needs a hand up, not a hand out. It also needs a complete administrative overhaul.

Named: All Black team to play France

Skipper and regular midfield return for All Blacks against France.

The $50 million dollar Hybrid rugby match: All Blacks vs Kangaroos

Could we soon see Beauden Barrett go head-to-head with Jonathan Thurston? Or Damien McKenzie against Billy Slater?

England team to face Argentina

Eddie Jones has named his side to face Argentina in England’s opening game of the Old Mutual Wealth Series.

Video - Stuart Hogg breaks down in tears on camera in wake of Lions exit

The latest British and Irish documentary release features Stuart Hogg coming to terms with his early exit from the Lions tour, after a freak accident saw Conor Murray split him open with a stray elbow.

BREAKING: Leicester Tigers sign 78 cap heavyweight Wallaby frontrower

Leicester Tigers have completed the signing of Australia international hooker Tatafu Polota-Nau on a two-and-a-half year contract, beginning in December 2017.

Ireland to field one of their heaviest back-lines ever against South Africa

Ireland has named one of its heaviest backlines in recent memory, fielding a back-line with an average weight of 98.8kg.

Watch: All Black prop - 'The doc thought I wouldn't play again'

'In our careers we get a lot of negativity and it's part of our lives to prove people wrong.'

Analysis: How the Wallabies 'fake maul' set up Speight's try

It will be tougher to find & isolate weak defenders like they did on this set piece lineout move, but this play illustrated the Wallabies still have some ingenuity in their playbook.

London Irish player 'remaining positive' in wake of cancer diagnosis

Squad members and staff at London Irish are rallying behind first team player Darren Dawidiuk who is receiving treatment for testicular cancer.

The head of the Irish Rugby, IRFU CEO Phillip Browne has written to World Rugby CEO Brett Gosper outlining what he sees as serious flaws in the Rugby World Cup bid of South Africa.

Should the Queensland Reds re-sign Karmichael Hunt?

At 30 years old, Hunt’s career is in the twilight stages after stints in the NRL, AFL, and Super Rugby - but should the Reds think twice before bringing him back?

Appeal launched for Samoan players

With the Manu Samoa team currently on tour in the UK, Pacific Rugby Players Welfare has launched an appeal to ensure the players aren't left financially vulnerable by their union's bankruptcy.

Wallabies attack is better than the All Blacks - Welsh coach

Ahead of this weekend's test match against Australia, Wales assistant coach Shaun Edwards has claimed the Wallabies possess the best rugby weapons in the world.

Australian man gets greatest Warriors-related tattoo ever

Sydney journalist Steve Zemek has commemorated Billy Idol’s hovercraft infamous 2002 hovercraft ride by tattooing onto his leg. I talked to him about his courageous move to immortalize this piece of rugby league history.

Gatland set for surprise selection at fullback

Wales don't possess the abundance of options that a Lions tour does and looks like a case of trying to fit two world-class players into one team.

Hogg gave up a certain alcoholic beverage and lost 9kg

Stuart Hogg has been one of the most consistent performers in recent six nations memory, touring New Zealand this summer with Warren Gatland's Lions side.

Eddie Jones retains 26 players for Argentina

England have named a squad of 26 players that can be selected for their clash with Argentina on Saturday.

5 talking points ahead of the Wallabies' trip to Europe

There will be sterner tests ahead as they head over to Europe to end their season, but some of the performances will have given Michael Cheika a reason to smile.

More than a game - being in the crowd at Tonga vs Samoa

One of the biggest displays of Pasifika unity happened on Saturday night in Hamilton.

Kiwis carving up the north: not the best weekend results-wise

Here's some of the key Kiwi performers from another round of European action.

Ten players to watch in the November Tests

The beginning of the autumn internationals proper are now just days away, as the southern hemisphere’s elite round off their seasons by taking on the best the northern hemisphere has to offer.

BREAKING: Three Welsh internationals are returning to Wales

Dragons have confirmed the signing of scrum-half Rhodri Williams from Bristol Rugby.

England and Wales forwards pack are going head to head this morning in Bristol in what's been described as an 'intense' forwards training sessions.

Only three big wins will do for England – Andy Goode

There’s been a lot of talk about injuries, selection and even a training game against Wales but it’s time to get down to business and nothing short of three comfortable wins will constitute a success for England this autumn.

Worcester Warriors release statement on potential sale of club

Worcester Warriors have released a statement in response to media reports that suggested the club's location might be changed if it were to be sold.

Watch: NRL convert Semi Radradra already on Fijian radar

After only one month of rugby at French Powerhouse Toulon, NRL-convert Semi Radradra has been taking the Top 14 by storm.

Video - Julian Savea leads Barbarians dressing room Haka

The All Blacks may have run out winners at Twickenham on Saturday, but the Barbarians had the last laugh...or rather Haka.

Watch: Tim Bateman shows off his fast hands

Canterbury midfielder Tim Bateman shows why is he is still thriving in Super Rugby at age 30, with these fast hands in a hand-eye coordination drill at training.

Japanese rugby's bizarre take on trophies

Japan has always done things a little differently, and it is no different when it comes to handing out the winners' hardware in rugby.

Bond University Queensland Country defeated Fijian Drua 57-21 to book their spot in the 2017 National Rugby Championship grand final.

Vunipola and Tuilagi plea: Let's help out Samoa

English test players Mako Vunipola and Manu Tuilagi are appealing to team mates to help out the cash-strapped Manu Samoa by donating part of their match fees.

Irish PM takes unprecedented swipe at South Africa's RWC2023 bid

Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar has taken an unprecedented swipe at South Africa 2023 Rugby World Cup bid.

Watch: Maori All Blacks massacre Canada in Vancouver

The Maori scored seven tries to none in the one-sided affair.

All Blacks claim victory, but Barbarians win hearts at Twickenham

It was a case of just playing the bad guy again for the All Blacks against the Barbarians, as they ran out 31-22 winners

World Rugby release statement following Laporte's explosive criticism

World Rugby have released a statement in response to comments by Bernard Laporte on behalf of the Fédération Française de Rugby (FFR).

Why an All Black loss this weekend would actually be a pretty good result for NZ rugby

If you’re ever going to find a time when New Zealanders will be alright with an All Black loss, this weekend will be it.

Named: Barbarian side to face All Blacks

Everyone's favourite invitational side, Barbarian FC, have named their side to take on the All Blacks at Twickenham this weekend.

Dragons sign Welsh rugby league starlet

Dragons have strengthened their options in the midfield with the signing of a young rugby league player.

Watch: Try of the season contender in Pro14

How good is this from Glasgow's Niko Matawalu?

South Africa wins official endorsement host Rugby World Cup 2023

While the actual prize of hosting the ‘Rugby World Cup 2023’ will be awarded on the 15th November, today offers an objective insight into who should in theory host the competition.

Defending champs name strong squad for 2018

Defending Super Rugby champions the Crusaders have named seven new caps, including the son of a former captain and coach, among a squad of familiar names for their 2018 campaign.

The 1014: Why England are favourites to win 2019 World Cup

Over the past two years there have been many claims that England are back to their best. After winning consecutive Six Nations titles and maintaining a 95% win record, it is hard to argue with many of these claims.

Luke McAlister set for mid-season Toulon exit - reports

With Clermont's interest in 30-cap All Black McAlister as cover for the injured Camile Lopez said to be cooling, Top 14 basement side Brive have reportedly made an approach to take the player to the Correze

Rugby World Cup 2019 fixtures announced

RWC 2019 Schedule: Winners and Losers

It may seem like a small thing, but the scheduling of fixtures at the Rugby World Cup can be the difference between qualifying for the knockout phases or facing a humbling group stage exit.

Armand expected England omission

Exeter back rower Don Armand says he expected to be left out of Eddie Jones’ England squad for the autumn internationals, despite going on tour to Argentina in the summer and starring for the Chiefs at the start of this season.

Named: Kiwi squads for Super Rugby 2018

The All Blacks have five games left in 2017, but that hasn't stopped the New Zealand teams getting themselves geared up for next year's Super Rugby season already. Here's the squads named today:

Video - Joe Marler reacts to not getting picked for first Lions Test

The latest British and Irish Lions video features serial humourist, Joe Marler.

Video - Aaron Smith asked what it's like to face Savea - his answer is gold

Savea finds himself in the unusual position of lining out against the All Blacks this weekend. Aaron Smith talks about what it will be like to face his old team mate.

CONFIRMED: Pro14 release details of 2018 'Judgement Day'

Judgement Day, the sixth annual regional double-header at Principality Stadium, has been confirmed for the afternoon of Saturday 28th April, the final weekend of Guinness PRO14 Championship action before the knock-out stages.

Wasps have signed one of the world's most remarkable players

Wasps have signed 28-year-old Australian hooker Nathan Charles on a three-month contract as injury cover.

The 1014: Rugby World Cup 2019 - POOL B

The 1014 examine Pool B ahead of the 2017 November tests.

King Carlos is coming back for the Blues

Is this the spark the Blues need to return them to former glory?

Watch: Three red cards in Racing 92 Top 14 clash

Racing 92 beat Bordeaux 29-13 on Saturday, despite finishing the game with just 12 men.

BREAKING: Rugby World Cup 2023 announcement

While the actual prize of hosting the ‘Rugby World Cup 2023’ will be awarded on the 15th November, today offers an objective insight into who should in theory host the competition.

EXCLUSIVE: Leicester Tigers snap up top rugby scout

Having made an encouraging start to the Premiership season, Leicester Tigers have moved to bolster their off-field staff with the addition of Dusty Hare in a part-time scouting role.

Mike Delany Is Doing What?

When Mike Delany, a 35-year old, greying first five from the Bay of Plenty, took a call earlier this year from Crusaders coach Scott Robertson, he thought he was the victim of some kind of pra

The All Black winger use-by date

Julian Savea probably woke up to the news that he’d apparently signed a deal with Harlequins this morning with the same reaction as everyone else in the New Zealand rugby community – disbelief.

The 1014 Podcast - Rugby World Cup 2019: Pool A

We explore the history, world rankings and expectations for the teams in Pool A of #RWC2019.

Kiwis carving up the north - blasts from the past

European action returned to the domestic scene over the weekend, with the European Cup taking a break for the Aviva Premiership, Top 14 and Pro 14 to continue.

On This Day: Sam Burgess is unveiled at Bath

Oh, what could have been. On this day three years ago, Bath unveiled the next big hope of English rugby union, former league superstar Sam Burgess. First announced in February of that year, Burgess’ first day as an official Bath player was spent doing the media rounds hyping his

USRC Tigers pull off a stunning comeback in HKRU Premiership

The Borrelli Walsh USRC Tigers pulled off a stunning comeback to defeat Bloomberg HK Scottish in the Old Mutual International Men’s Premiership on Saturday, scoring two tries in the final three minutes to steal a 31-28 victory.

The full story on Marland Yarde's expected Sale move

The rugby rumour mill has been on overdrive this past weekend, as stories emerged that Harlequins wing Marland Yarde is set to join Premiership rivals Sale Sharks, in a rare mid-season move.

Bath Will Rue Round 7 In Final Reckoning

We might be just a third of the way through the Premiership season but we’ll look back at this weekend as a pivotal one in May when the race for the top four is reaching its conclusion.

Update - Rokoduguni might finally be getting his England chance

Bath winger Semesa Rokoduguni has been called up into the England squad and will fly to Faro, Portugal this afternoon.

Death, taxes and a Canterbury win in the Mitre 10 Cup

The unpredictability of one final versus the utter predictability of the other in the Mitre 10 Cup finals weekend.

BREAKING: Rumours mounting that Julian Savea has signed with Premiership club

Rumours are circulating that All Black winger Julian Savea has signed for a Premiership side.

Howley 'seeking advice' over Byrne bullying allegations

Wales back coach Rob Howley says he is 'seeking advice' in relation to bullying accusations made by former Wales fullback Lee Byrne in a recent autobiography.

Injury claims two more England stars from Eddie Jones' squad

Injuries sustained in Wasps' Premiership clash with Northampton Saints yesterday have knocked two England players out of Eddie Jones November Tests squad.

Julian Savea's wife takes to Twitter over Harlequins rumours

The wife of All Black winger Julian Savea has taken to Twitter to shutdown rumours that her husband is going to sign for an English Premiership side.

Highlights: Canterbury secure Premiership title

The 35-13 demolition of the Tasman Makos secured Canterbury their ninth title in 10 years and their 14th overall.

Video - Baabaa's coach Alan Jones has given another explosive rant

Former Wallabies coach Alan Jones - famous for a rant about the malaise in Australian rugby - has gone on another rant.

Watch: the newest potential league convert to the All Blacks

There's another league player on the All Blacks' shopping list.

Listen: 'England would beat the All Blacks'

Rugby Pass's Jim Hamilton has made a bold claim heading into the November international period, saying that England currently would have the wood on the World Champion All Blacks.

Scarlets release statement on the future of Pivac

Pivac joined the Scarlets ahead of the 2014-15 season taking over the title role following Simon Easterby's departure from the region.

The astonishing sum about to be invested in English rugby

The aim is to win the men's World Cup in 2019 and the Women's World Cup just two years later.

Watch: Japanese rugby to boost Currie Cup

A recent decision by Japanese rugby to put a strong focus on the development of its national team for the 2019 World Cup, looks likely to benefit the Currie Cup.

Marland Yarde leaves Harlequins in shock mid-season exit

According to BT Sport reports Marland Yarde has just left Harlequins, after a week where he was dropped for disciplinary reasons.

Wellington and BOP go at over point a minute - for 100 minutes

Watch as the defensive playbook goes out the window in Wellington.

No such thing as dead rubber for Wallabies

There's no telling the Aussies that ANY Bledisloe Cup test is a dead rubber. For Wallaby fans, there's no such thing - just a burning desire to get one back over the ABs.

One Lion omitted from English squad announcement

Eddie Jones has named his England squad to begin their preparations for the opening match of the Old Mutual Wealth Series against Argentina.

A look at Eddie Jone's potential starting XV for Argentina

England head coach Eddie Jones named his 34-man squad for the November Tests earlier today, but surprises were few and far between, as the Australian seeks to finetune his squad ahead of the Rugby World Cup in 2019.

The Goode, the Bad & the Ugly

Malakai Fekitoa passes his first trial by media at Toulon

Malakai Fekitoa survives his first grilling by the French press as a Toulon player unscathed

BREAKING: Bundee Aki among four uncapped players in Ireland squad

The Ireland coaching group has named a 38 player squad that includes four uncapped players for the Guinness Series 2017 which sees Ireland take on South Africa, Fiji and Argentina in the Aviva Stadium in November.

Two of Clermont's biggest stars are leaving the club

Duo will join Raphael Chaume and the retiring Aurelien Rougerie in leaving the club at the end of the season - amid fears Noa Nakaitaci is also heading for the exit

Watch: Irish rugby plans to import even more foreign players

With the likely additions of Bundee Aki and Tyler Bleyendaal, the Irish could easily line out this time next year with more backs born outside of Ireland than in it.

HKCC claim first win of the season

The Old Mutual International Men’s Premiership clubs picked up where they left off with another weekend of exciting close-run affairs.

Watch: What you need to know about the four new All Blacks

Here's a few more facts about the players about to pull on the black jersey for the first time.

Watch: National spotlight awaits enigmatic Rongotai Sevens team

"I liken Rongotai College rugby to a volcano - it just bubbles away and then erupts."

Live Now: John Kirwan and Ric Salizzo Analyse the ABs Squad for Europe

Unstoppable Power: Alex Fidow and Asafo Aumua

Young front rowers Alex Fidow and Asafo Aumua have been terrorising opposition teams so far in the 2017 Mitre 10 Cup season and have been a key reason for Wellington's dominance in the Championship.

Rising England star Harry Mallinder signs 2020 deal

Northampton Saints may be having an up and down season, but one of their biggest homegrown talents is backing his side.

BREAKING: Watch as 'Siri' interrupts a Lions team meeting

The British and Irish Lions have released a clip from their upcoming Lions documentary and it's pure gold.

Saracens lock in another key player with 2020 deal

Saracens have announced that Ben Spencer is the latest player to commit his future to the club, with the 25-year old scrum-half signing a new deal to remain at Allianz Park until 2020.

Mallinder issues statement in wake of Dylan Hartley's citing decision

Northampton Saints have issued the following statement in response to the outcome of Dylan Hartley's citing.

England prop Joe Marler receives ban

The Harlequins prop, Joe Marler, has been suspended for three weeks following an independent Disciplinary Hearing in London on Wednesday, 25 October arising from his club's Champions Cup, Round 2 match against Wasps at the Ricoh Arena.

Marty & Jamie review Bledisloe III

Radio Sport NZ's Martin Devlin and Rugby Pass's Jamie Wall break down the mood of the NZ public following the All Blacks' shock loss to the Wallabies.

Exclusive: Southern Hemisphere looks set to compete in Anglo-Welsh Cup

Following on from our exclusive earlier this month that the South African Rugby Union (SARU) were in advanced talks to create two new franchises to be entered into the Anglo-Welsh Cup from the 2018/19 season.

Josh Van Der Flier is latest Irish casualty

Joe Schmidt will name his squad for the upcoming Autumm internationals later this week but will be without Josh Van Der Flier.

Watch: The reviews are in for Rugby 18

The game came out today in the USA and will launch in Europe on Friday the 27th of October.

Simon Zebo's new club and eye watering wages revealed

When you see the figures laid out in black in white it is hard to do anything other than agree with Simon Zebo's decision to leave Munster.

Magnus Bradbury stripped of Edinburgh club captaincy

Edinburgh's Magnus Bradbury has been stripped of the club captaincy it has emerged.

Watch: The astonishing meteoric rise of Sam Cross

It hasn't been a bad few days for 25-year old Sam Cross who made his debut for the Ospreys on Saturday night, scored a try in the corner and roughed up Owen Farrell in the process.

Kiwis carving up the north: Champions Cup round two

While the All Blacks may have gone down to the Wallabies over the weekend, New Zealanders still had a few reasons to smile after another round of European action.

Eddie can’t ignore Chiefs stars as they hit new heights

There were some terrific performances in the Champions Cup second round this weekend but Exeter’s win in Montpellier tops the lot and their stars picked the perfect week to shine brighter than ever ahead of Eddie Jones’ England squad announcement on Thursday.

BREAKING: Simon Zebo is leaving Munster

Munster Rugby and the IRFU have confirmed that Simon Zebo will depart the province at the end of the current season.

Watch: World Rugby's 'Breakthrough of the Year' nominees

The first batch of nominees have been revealed for the 2017 World Rugby Awards, taking place in Salle des Etoiles in Monte Carlo on the 26th of November.

English trio cited and could face bans

English captain Dylan Hartley and two other English forwards have been cited following this weekend's European action.

The 1014 Rugby - Bledisloe 3: Wallabies v All Blacks - REVIEW

The Wallabies beat the All Blacks in Brisbane. Who shone for both teams? Is this a new dawn for Australian rugby?

BREAKING: New routine could massively reduce injuries in rugby

A new exercise programme, performed by rugby players before training and pre-match, could dramatically reduce injuries in the sport according to a benchmark study published today.

Champions Cup XV of Round 2

From Exeter’s historic 27-24 victory over Montpellier in the south of France to Munster’s tight, ferocious and emotionally-charged 14-7 win against Racing 92, round two of the Champions Cup delivered in abundance.

Named: New faces in All Black squad

Steve Hansen has given the opportunity for some promising players to show their wares on the international stage.

Lee Byrne claims Rob Howley tried to humiliate him

The big issue: unfairness, welfare and the myth of ‘poaching’ in Pacific Island rugby

Jamie Wall talks to Dan Leo from Pacific Rugby Players Welfare about the issues facing island players both home and and abroad - and how we can maybe get to a stage where we’re not seeing the same old headlines.

Watch: Japan's next global superstar nobody knows about

Hosea Saumaki is a relatively unknown name in global rugby- however, we think that will change in the near future.

BREAKING: Connacht sign former All Black 7s beast Pita Ahki

Connacht Rugby and the IRFU have announced the signing of centre Pita Ahki.

Marty & Jamie talk about Warren Gatland

All Black team named: Barrett out, Sopoaga in

Lima Sopoaga will start just the second test match of his All Black career this Saturday night, after Beauden Barrett was ruled out of the match against the Wallabies.

Watch: Is the All Blacks/Wallabies rivalry dead?

This year's third Bledisloe test will again be a dead rubber match, with New Zealand wrapping up the series in a classic game two in Dunedin.

The 1014 Podcast: How to win the Rugby World Cup

The 1014 look at patterns in the statistics for all the professional era Rugby World Cup winning teams.

The state of Australian rugby

When tasked with writing about “The State of Australian Rugby” and asked to take a “light-hearted angle”, I wondered how in the hell I could find the funny side of what is a truly serious issue.

Warriors must front up against familiar foes Leinster

After winning all of their first six league matches in the Guinness Pro14, Glasgow Warriors were dealt a huge dollop of perspective by Exeter Chiefs, whose forwards produced a display of pure ferocity to bring the Scots down from their autumn high in the European Rugby

Watch: Psalm Wooching from NFL prospect to USA rugby

Psalm Wooching had the American dream at his fingertips, touted as a probable late-round pick, instead Psalm walked away from the possibility of money and fame to pursue his first love.

Francois Louw cited for alleged eye-gouge

Francois Louw has now been cited having allegedly made contact with the eyes of Marco Fuser, during Baths win over Treviso on Saturday.

Saracens expose same old problems for Saints

Once is a mistake but twice is a pattern and a second embarrassment in six weeks at the hands of the same opposition shows Northampton haven’t learned their lessons.

Watch: Malcolm Marx talks mind games and 'that' performance

In an honest and frank interview, Marx discusses mind games that occur between opposing packs, also admitting to partaking in them himself.

Jackson and Olding will stand trial for rape

Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding will stand trial for rape it was ruled by the court today.

Kiwis carving up the north - European Champions Cup Round One

The European Champions Cup kicked off over the weekend, with a number of New Zealanders part of the action.

Mo'unga called into All Black squad

The All Blacks squad will assemble in Brisbane later today to prepare for to play the Wallabies at Suncorp Stadium, this Saturday.

Opinion: New All Black Mo'unga is a kick in the balls to Australia and the rest

Richie Mo'unga's All Blacks selection serves as yet another reminder of the incredible depth in New Zealand rugby and another kick in the balls to New Zealand's international rivals.

Watch: Francois Louw set to be facing a lengthy ban

While Bath struggled in spells during their match against Benetton on Saturday, they did come away with a comfortable win.

Warriors sign backrow after try scoring rampage in Championship

Warriors have strengthened their options in the back row with the signing of USA international Andrew Durutalo.

Premiership Watchability Rankings October 2017

With so much rugby on nowadays, it can be hard to decide exactly which matches to watch, which to wait for the highlights of, and which to avoid entirely knowing it’ll be an ugly penalty-only slog with all the pace and skill of a tranquilised sloth.

Disappointed Webb 'unaware Toulon move would mean Wales exile'

The Wales scrum-half insists he was unaware his move to Top 14 side Toulon would put his international ambitions on hold - but coach Warren Gatland says different

Watch: Li scores five tries against Mitre 10 Cup leaders

Defense was at a premium today in Albany, where home side North Harbour handed Taranaki a 64-33 lesson in the final round of the Mitre 10 Cup.

Champions Cup XV of Round 1

The Champions Cup kicked off this weekend and reminded us all just what we have been missing over the last five months.

Key All Black re-signs till 2021

Watch out Robbie Henshaw.

The huge name players you probably didn't know played in the Japanese Top League

The Top League has been in ascendancy over the last few years, attracting star names away from Super Rugby with financial leverage that some southern hemisphere sides can only dream of.

Watch: RugbyPass Pre Game - Northampton Saints

Four English Teams To Make Champions Cup Quarter-Finals – Andy Goode

Saracens may be in a Champions Cup group of death but they are heavy favourites for a reason and I’m backing them to emulate Toulon and lift a third straight title.

The 1014 Rugby - Analysis of the 1-3-3-1 attack formation

What is 1-3-3-1? Where should teams use it?

Every game in the 2017/18 Champions Cup predicted - this team wins

It’s official, the Wallabies are better than Ireland

The latest World Rugby rankings are out, and have shown why releasing them at this time of the year is a somewhat futile exercise.

'It felt like a seven-month hangover' - van Velze on bodycheck that nearly ended his career

Warriors vice-captain GJ van Velze feared his career was over following a concussion injury in the opening game of the 2016/17 season.

Watch: Top 5 Craziest Red Cards Ever

Since the South African centre clattered into Lima Sopoaga, the rugby world has been in uproar over the ridiculousness of the decision to send Damian De Allende off, which has since been rescinded.

College American Football standout Psalm Wooching scores his first international try for USA 'A'

Former College American Football standout Psalm Wooching has scored his first international try for the USA.

'That is absolute class' - Stunning corner finish a lesson in poise

The final Ranfurly Shield clash of 2017 was a classic as Taranaki showed why they are the top team in the Premiership with a stunning victory over Manawatu at Yarrow Stadium, which doubled up as a Mitre 10 match.

Every game in the 2017/18 Champions Cup predicted - who wins?

It's official: what Springbok head coach Allister Coetzee cast aside as a rumour less than two weeks ago has become a reality.

The revealing truth about the next French squad

What the next France squad will tell you about the relationship between head coach Guy Noves and FFR president Bernard Laporte

Watch: Breaking down the NZ Schoolboys' dominant showing over Australia

As we highlighted over the last couple of weeks, the New Zealand Schoolboys have had some of its best ever athletes on show.

Family release footage of their now paralysed son's neck being broken during match

The family of a Robert Paylor, a California rugby player whose neck was broken during a match earlier this year, have released footage of the incident on social media following a World Rugby review into the incident.

1014 Podcast: The Rugby Championship 2017 Tournament Review

The 1014 look through the tournament finding patterns in the statistics. How did each team develop? How are they tracking towards the RWC 2019? Plus they select their Team of the Tournament

Kiwis carving up the north

It was another busy week for the New Zealand contingent of players across the European competitions, with a handful making all the difference in their sides' fortunes.

The 2017 Rugby Championship Review

Jamie Wall gives you the highs and lows of the Rugby Championship - complete with some sweet tries, an interesting rendition of a national anthem and Michael Cheika's weird take on the Israel Folau hair pulling episode.

Marty & Jamie review the epic All Black/Springbok test

Radio Sport NZ's Martin Devlin and Rugby Pass's Jamie Wall finally got the All Black/Springbok match they were so desperately looking for, and give it a decent run down.

Watch: In the sheds with Anton Lienert-Brown and the All Blacks

Anton Lienert-Brown who didn't see any game time on Saturday became an interviewer for a day, appearing to get more out of the players than an average interviewer.

EXCLUSIVE - SARU in advanced talks to add two teams to Anglo-Welsh Cup

Following the addition of the Cheetahs and Southern Kings to the Guinness PRO14 this season, the South African Rugby Union (SARU) is keen to expand their northern hemisphere options for the 2018/19 campaign.

Schedulers add insult to injury for Wasps

Wasps are on the ropes with a squad that is down to the bare bones and the schedulers have hit them with a low blow ahead of the Champions Cup kick-off.

Exeter Chiefs went back to top of the table briefly at the weekend, beating Newcastle by 32 points to 24.

Watch: The stats behind Malcolm Marx's perfect 10 rating

Despite coming out on the losing end against New Zealand on Saturday, Malcolm Marx can afford to be inwardly quite pleased with his individual performance.

Video - 'Foot on the throat' - Robbie Henshaw was mic'd up for Leinster Munster and it's quality

British and Irish Lions star Robbie Henshaw was 'Mic'd Up' by Sky Sports for his return game for Leinster against Munster yesterday and it showed a side to the young centre that fans might not have been familiar with.

These are the 64 'Youngs Guns' you need to watch out for in this year's Champions and Challenge Cups

The registered Champions Cup and Challenge Cup squads for the Premiership, PRO14 and Top 14 sides have been released and excitement is building for the kick-off of the European competitions next week.

Alternative commentary - David Attenborough calling the Cheetahs game will make your Sunday evening

The Cheetahs joining the Pro14 gives rises to all sort of 'big cat' puns, analogies and general fun for the Northern Hemisphere fans and media outlets.

Aussie 7s find wizard of a player dubbed too small for the Rabbitohs

Australia Men's 7s have found a gem in former South Sydney Rabbitohs junior Maurice Longbottom.

All Blacks v Springboks LIVE NOW

Will it be another walkover for the All Blacks or are they ripe for an ambush? See how it plays out on our exclusive LIVE MATCH CENTRE.

WATCH: Care and Vissers telepathic understanding leads to two tries

Danny Care was in exceptional form last night on his way to collecting the man-of-the-match award and defeating Sale by 42 points to 26.

All Blacks beat Boks in epic test

The All Blacks have beaten the Springboks 25-24 in an intense, thrilling match at Newlands in Cape Town.

Damian de Allende given the softest red card in the history of red cards

South Africa and New Zealand played out one of the best Test matches of the year today, but one decision in the 76th minute sticks in the craw.

The Welsh Rugby Union and the Ospreys have released a statement in which they say they can confirm that Rhys Webb has informed them of his intention to leave Welsh Rugby next season.

Video - Augustine Pulu red carded after a sublime piece of skill from opposition player

A week on from ripping off the post protectors in the Mitre 10 Cup, Counties Manakau scrumhalf Augustine Pulu has seen red again.

Watch: Is the Aviva Premierships injury crisis out of control?

In the past four years the average tackle count has risen by a startling 33.2 percent, according to figures from The Telegraph.

Watch: Rugby 18 gameplay, do we finally have a game worth playing?

The game is set to arrive on our shelves October the 27th, brought to us by Big Ben Interactive and Eko Studio.

Ruggamatrix episode 256

Should the rest of the world step up to All Blacks standards? This is a theme on message boards and we address it on this week's show.

Understanding the All Black support in Cape Town

Where will you find the most passionate All Black fans? All evidence points to the aged stands of Newlands this weekend.

Even Gloucester fans will agree with Andy Goode's critique of their team

From beating the champions on the opening day of the season to equalling their biggest ever Premiership defeat against Sale a few short weeks later, Gloucester must be the most frustrating team in the world to support.

Los Pumas v Wallabies - What do the numbers say?

Israel Folau has crossed the try line five times this campaign and pulled Dillyn Leyds hair once - more than any other player in the competition

Springboks v All Blacks - What do the numbers say?

New Zealand have scored 221 points and 32 tries in this tournament this year, they need 42 points and seven tries in this game to break the competition records they set last year.

Watch - HKRU Premiership's Friday Night Lights...and fights

A fitful Friday night match turned into a dramatic affair tonight at Kings Park as Kowloon claimed their first win of the Old Mutual International Premiership season

Following yesterday's hearing in Bristol, Kyle Sinckler has been banned for seven weeks after being charged with making contact with the eye.

Wasps are on the hunt for reinforcements...and they've got a war chest

With an unusually high amount of injuries in the early portion of this season, it shouldn’t be surprising to find that several Premiership teams are scouring the globe for medical jokers before the busy European and November Test periods come around.

Blair Cowan pens new deal

Blair Cowan has signed a contract extension with London Irish, the club have announced.
Cowan, 31, who has been a pivotal figure in the Exiles’ back row since his move to the club in 2013, is currently closing in on 100 appearances

Saliva samples to be taken from Aviva Premiership players as part of study - RFU

The Rugby Football Union and Premiership Rugby today confirmed that World Rugby has approved an optional period of up to three minutes to be added to the HIA process for the remainder of this season in the Aviva Premiership and Greene King

Video - 5 rugby players that prove size means nothing

In the new age of sports science we’re all too used to seeing burly players battering away at each other. Sadly we often see talent and creativity take a back seat to speed and size.

Watch: Aaron Cruden’s brother duels the next Beauden Barrett

The crossing of paths between Stewart Cruden and Fergus Burke could prove to be an historic one in the future.

Sinckler needs to deal with 'chip on shoulder' if he wants to make mark on game - Andy Goode

Kyle Sinckler may have played in all three Tests for the British & Irish Lions in the summer but he needs to smarten up his act if he wants to continue to make his mark on the game.

Are Gloucester the most frustrating team in sport?

From beating the champions on the opening day of the season to equalling their biggest ever Premiership defeat against Sale a few short weeks later, Gloucester must be the most frustrating team in the world to support.

WATCH: Tongan schoolboy produces bone-jarring hit

Whenever you play a pacific island team, you know you are going to be at risk of being on the end of a bell-ringer. Tongan schoolboy centre, Siosefa Finau, delivers exactly that during the NZ barbarians schoolboy test.

Watch: The best skills and the biggest hits from from this weekends Aviva Premiership

There were some moments of magic in the Aviva Premiership this weekend and lucky for us the best have been neatly packaged up in the below clip.

Rugby takes a back seat: a wild ride in Buenos Aires

Jamie Wall's crazy journey through Buenos Aires traffic, nightlife and everything else off the park during the All Blacks' visit to Argentina.

Rico Syme impresses in NZ Barbarians debut

Here are our three top performers of the match and names to watch out for in the future.

Argentina v Australia - What do the numbers say?

FACT: Israel Folau has crossed the try line five times this campaign and pulled Dillyn Leyds hair once - more than any other player in the competition

Kiwis in European action over the weekend

While the All Blacks had another comfortable win over the Pumas over the weekend, there were plenty of other New Zealanders playing a bit of footy in the European competitions too.

Mass postponements tarnish Premiership A League

Just a few short weeks into the season and the Premiership's A League is already coming in for heavy criticism.

Watch: Beast Cokanasiga puts pen to paper on four year deal

The 19-year-old was named in Eddie Jones’ England squad for the summer tour to Argentina after helping the Exiles make an immediate return to the Aviva Premiership.

Pat Lambie fast-tracked into Racing colours after concussion

Racing 92 have one eye on their European Champions Cup campaign as they consider naming South African Pat Lambie in their squad for the weekend's trip to La Rochelle

Sinckler needs to smarten up his act

Kyle Sinckler may have played in all three Tests for the British & Irish Lions in the summer but he needs to smarten up his act if he wants to continue to make his mark on the game.

Ugo Monye appears to take aim at Jack Singleton and even more incredibly hits the bullseye.

LIVE NOW: Pumas v All Blacks

You can follow all the action right here in Rugby Pass's LIVE MATCH CENTRE.

Los Pumas v All Blacks - What do the numbers say?

This weekend the All Blacks travel to Buenos Aires where they will face Los Pumas for a second time this season. Check out all the key stats as we head into week five of The Rugby Championship.

Lions discontent amongst wider squad

Former Scotland international Jim Hamilton said he had heard murmurings of discontent from within the camp but disagreed with O’Brien’s comments that the Lions would have won the series 3-0 with better coaching and preparation.

Goode backs shorter tours and smaller squads

Following the Lions controversy prompted by Sean O’Brien’s comments last week, and an announcement that number of games on the next British & Irish Lions tour in 2021 will be reduced to eight, Andy Goode believes that reduced squad sizes will lead to a more

Hansen names one new cap in All Black side to play Pumas

The All Blacks team has been named to play the Rugby Championship match against Argentina at Estadio José Amalfitani.

VIDEO: Check out the impressive NZ Schoolboys forward pack

Last week we brought you the monstrous NZ Schoolboys backline, this time we're having a look at the equally gigantic forwards.

Leinster have omitted Ireland number eight Jamie Heaslip from their European Cup Squad, adding to speculation that his ongoing injury could potentially end his career.

Watch: 12 times that speed beat everything

To champion quickness in our game we’ve put together some of the greatest examples of times when speed beat everything.

The Super Rugbyfication of the Premiership and its fringe defence problem

For many years now, there has been a sizeable group of English rugby fans – and many fans from other northern hemisphere countries – that have looked down their noses at the defensive structures, missed one-on-one tackles and fractured defensive lines of

Coetzee questions his player's technical ability and releases a further three Boks

Allister Coetzee the Springboks coach, feels one player in particular lacks the technical ability that is needed at international level.

The universal language of rugby - Japan

Jared James is the only foreigner in an all Japanese rugby team, Shizuoka Rugby Club. The 24-year old headed to Japan teach English in 2014.

WRU preparing massive salary bid to bring Ross Moriarty home

It is no secret that the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) are keen to bring dynamic flanker Ross Moriarty back across the Severn and to team him up with one of the four Welsh PRO14 regions.

Finn Russell set for Top 14 move: reports

Scotland's Finn Russell could be on the verge of joining Top 14 side Racing 92, according to reports in the French media.

Irish brought back down to earth with a bump - Andy Goode

Video - Connacht coach gives one of the most ****ed off post match interviews in years

Sky interviewer Graham Simmons interviewed Connacht head coach Kieran Keane in the aftermath of his side's loss to Cardiff at the weekend.

WATCH: The monstrous NZ Schoolboys backline

New Zealand are always expected to bring a strong line-up in the annual schoolboy test match against Australia.
This year however, the potential starting back line is monstrous.

Leaguel Counsel Episode 20

I can remember where I was for every Grand Final since 1989. This Sunday will be another milestone in my 34 years on this earth.

Video - Unheard of moment of madness sees Augustine Pulu get a talking to from ref

Augustine Pulu does not like fat post pads, especially when he's trying to defend the line.

Scarlets are second in Conference B after Gareth Davies scored one try and laid on another in a 28-8 bonus-point win over Edinburgh.

Asafo Aumua is a beast on defence as well

New Wellington hooker Asafo Aumua has been lighting up highlight reels with ball in hand so far in the Mitre 10 Cup, but he showed he's no slouch when it comes to tackling either.

RWC 2023: State of play - Ireland

Excitement is mounting ahead of the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan, which is just two short years away.

Martyn Williams calls for a change of captaincy in the Welsh team

Current skipper Alun Wyn Jones was given the captaincy for last years campaign and is tipped by many to be captain this autumn, due to Sam Warburton looking likely to be out of action until January with a neck injury.

Worrying scenes for both Saracens and England

Saracens have just run out comprehensive winners against Sale Sharks by 41-13.
One blot on their otherwise pristine copybook is the injury sustained by Billy Vunipola in the 37th minute.

WATCH: Brutal elbow in Top14 clash ends in a red card

Montpellier lock Konstantin Mikautadze got himself an early shower in his side's hiding at the hands of Bordeaux Begles today, thanks to this act of violence with ball in hand.

Let's talk about Springbok selection policies

Merit based or race based? Andrew Mehrtens gave his two cents on The Short Ball this week, laying into the debate about South African Rugby's selection policies in the wake of the Springboks' 57-0 defeat to the All Blacks.

Ludicrous talk of extending season has to stop, says Hamilton

Former Scotland international and double Premiership champion and European Cup winner with Saracens, Jim Hamilton, has labelled the suggestion of an extended season “ludicrous”

Barrett's holiday cancelled

Beauden Barrett will once again don the number 10 jersey against the Pumas, and will most likely play 80 minutes.

What does the 2018 draw mean for your Super Rugby team?

After breaking down the 19 rounds of the competition next year, here’s the teams that have done well and the ones that haven’t.

Jones names English training squad

Eddie Jones has opted to leave out four Lions from his three-day training camp commencing Sunday the 24th of September in Oxford.

The secret behind AJ MacGinty's near immaculate kicking stats

The USA and Sale Sharks fly-half has made a phenomenal start with the boot to Sale's Aviva Premiership campaign.

Lions chief executive John Feehan has defended Warren Gatland in the wake of O'Brien's criticism of his coaching panel on Wednesday night.

Worcester facing winter of discontent - Andy Goode

It may still be September and today is only the first day of autumn officially but Worcester could be heading for a ‘winter of discontent’ with problems mounting both on and off the field.

NZ Prime Minister's son is a gun on the rugby field

English Jr. was the captain of the St Pats Town 1st XV in Wellington, and was also included in the Hurricanes under-18 squad this season.

New Super Rugby format, draw announced

Three less teams, one less conference and a change in flight patterns for the Sunwolves.

Ryan's France Sevens job tip of a big Bleu rugby iceberg

Coach who masterminded Fiji's sevens glory at Rio joins France as a consultant - and it's just one part of a slow rebirth of the French at international level

WATCH: Can 20 year old French centre live up to the hype?

Penaud burst onto the international scene in June, scoring a try against the Springboks in Durban and putting in a solid shift at centre.

Billy Vunipola supports O'Brien's critique of Lions coaching staff

English backrower Billy Vunipola believes if the Lions had been under the tutelage of Eddie Jones in New Zealand, the tourists would have won the series 3-0.

Exclusive - Six clubs circling young Saracens star

They say it never rains but it pours and the forecast is certainly beginning to look cloudy in North London.

Vile abuse directed at Springboks & their families

Eben Etzebeth has called out the vile abuse that has been directed at Springbok players and their families following their defeat in New Zealand.

Watch: The Top 14's best ever French flair moments

If French rugby is known for anything it’s flair. Week in week out the Top 14 shows off crazy kicking, impossible off-loads, and ridiculous running.

EXCLUSIVE: 48 polled Premiership players on what they really think of an extended season

When World Rugby announced its reforms for the global season back in March, it understandably provoked a mixed reaction.

O'Brien blames Lions coaching panel for drawn series with the All Blacks

O'Brien recounts one particular instance where the team had a triple training session just two days prior to the first test, insisting it was a mistake to overload the team so close to the first test which the Lions would ultimately go on to lose by 30-15.

The Short Ball with Scotty & Mils - The Mascot

Scotty and Mils give an honest review of South Africa's shocking performance over the weekend then call in Andrew Mehrtens for his take on the game. More importantly, a comprehensive analysis of the Mitre 10 Cup team mascots is undertaken.

Heaviest defeats in history

Last Saturday, we witnessed the biggest defeat in South Africa’s proud history. A somewhat inexperienced and questionably coached squad, suffering a 57-0 humiliation against the World Champions.

Two years since Japan shook the rugby world

Two years ago today, Japan pulled off the most unlikely victory the sport has ever seen. On a sunny day in Brighton, the Brave Blossoms shocked the Springboks and the rugby world when they ran out 34-32 winners in their first pool game of the Rugby

What the hell is this

Former All Black Victor Vito won the Top 14 player of the year award earlier in the week, and for some reason was presented with the trophy by some naked, oiled up French dude holding a ball over his junk.

Injury update on Springboks flanker Jaco Kriel

It would appear that the injury Jaco Kriel sustained in the Springboks clash with Australia seems to be more serious than first anticipated.

Watch: The Dragons just signed 116kg of prime American beef

He arrives at Rodney Parade as injury cover for Sam Beard and Tyler Morgan. Beard suffered a shoulder injury against Edinburgh two weeks ago, while Morgan took a blow to the ribs in the win over Connacht last Friday on night.

Wasps’ Director of Rugby Dai Young said: “It’s obviously not ideal to be without some of our key players, but it’s likely to happen to a number of clubs at some stage during the season.

Stade Francais in the pink as Jules Plisson and four more French stars decide their futures

Rivals have been circling Stade, hoping to tempt Jules Plisson, Jonathan Danty, Remi Bonfils, Paul Gabrillagues and Alexandre Flanquart to leave the club. This week, the five French stars are set to reveal their futures ...

Weekend review with Marty & Jamie

After the hiding the All Blacks gave the Springboks on the weekend, the boys couldn't wait till later in the week to talk about it.

RP Interview with Danny Cipriani

Mitchell calls out Bok tactics

The Springboks are 'too prescriptive' and they should start chancing their arm. That is the blunt assessment of the Blue Bulls' New Zealand coach John Mitchell

Wasps target England fly-half for 2018/19 season

The 24-year-old is reportedly inching closer to a move, with Wasps leading the charge for his signature.

Several Springboks released from duty for Currie Cup fixtures

It was confirmed today by SA rugby that a number of players would be permitted to take part in The Currie Cup this coming weekend.

Gloucester sign Wallaby international on short term deal

In a statement released today, Glocester Rugby confirmed the signing of the Australian international on a short-term deal prior to the start of next years Super Rugby competition.

Radradra slips out of a back door at ANZ Stadium and heads for France

To the dismay and annoyance of waiting journalists at ANZ Stadium, Radradra apparently slipped quietly out of a back door without a word after the match.

Cian Healy ejected from Leinster's flight to Cape Town

Leinster's Cian Healy was asked to disembark a flight from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town yesterday.

Israel Dagg injury update

Dagg missed the first two tests of the Rugby Championship due to the reoccurring knee injury but managed to line up for the All blacks last weekend in Yarrow Stadium.

Watch: Top 5 performances from week four of The Rugby Championship

It was a weekend of highs and lows, evident in the words of the former Springbok coach Nick Mallet who said to criticise South Africa at this stage would be akin to "clubbing a baby seal".

Video: Is this the Irish team that could win the 2019 Rugby World Cup

Despite winning the Grand Slam in 2009 and the Six Nations titles in 2014 and 2015, Ireland have always failed to deliver on the World Cup stage. Is this the team to change all that at the 2019 World Cup?

Hansen to name two separate squads for the All Blacks final two tests

Strength in depth is one of the greatest weapons at the disposal of Steve Hansen, evident in the decision to pick two twenty eight man squads on Monday.

“It’s an extremely serious incident and the individual concerned won’t be welcome back at the ground for the foreseeable future."

Three familiar faces back for the All Blacks

A group of senior players will miss the Argentinian leg of the Rugby Championship, as the All Blacks management looks to manage the squad.

From the 7th XV to NZ Schoolboys squad – the incredible rise of Rico Syme

Getting a call-up to the New Zealand Schoolboys rugby squad is a privilege reserved for few, which makes Rico Syme’s improbable selection one of the great rugby stories of the year.

LIVE GAME - All Blacks v Springboks

The biggest battle in world rugby is happening in Albany as the All Blacks take on old foes the Springboks in The Rugby Championship. Follow all the action, stats and commentary in our Live Match Centre here.

MATCH REPORT - All Blacks massacre Boks in Albany

The All Blacks destroyed the Springboks tonight at QBE Stadium in Albany, winning 57-0 in a very one-sided test.

LIVE GAME - Wallabies v Pumas

GIO Stadium in Canberra is the venue for the second of tonight's Rugby Championship matches, where the Wallabies are hosting the Pumas. Follow all the action, stats and commentary in our Live Match Centre here.

Despite 'visa' debacle Leinster dethrone Kings

In the first match in the championship to ever be played in at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth, Leinster showed no signs of travel sickness.

There's been a fresh twist in the Leinster 'visa issues' saga

Leinster rugby have today confirmed that both Gibson-Park and Nacewa have today applied for the visa required for New Zealand nationals entering South Africa from the Embassy in Dublin.

I was at the AJ Bell Stadium on Friday night to witness the worst game of rugby that I can remember watching for a long time. The conditions didn’t help but it isn’t the first time players have played in rain.

Leinster explain exactly what happened in Johannesburg airport

Leinster Rugby have issued a mea culpa of sorts after two of their players were denied access to South Africa yesterday.

VIDEO: The player to watch this weekend and why

This week we are going out on a rather precarious looking limb with our pick of the week but follow our logic.

The Rugby Championship preview with Marty & Jamie

Radio Sport NZ host Martin Devlin and Rugby Pass's own Jamie Wall give a run down of the All Blacks v Boks, Wallabies v Pumas...and a bit of Israel Folau for good measure.

Video - Cheika weighs in on the Folau Tweet in characteristically gruff fashion

Wallabies head coach Michael Cheika has offered his thoughts around the Israel Folau Twitter controversy.

Sensational offload and chip over the top in single move

While the game was effectively over as a contest from the off, the fans in Christchurch were treated to some scintillating rugby or 'razzle-dazzle' as Justin might say.

Opinion: Should’ve kept that one to yourself, Izzy

Israel Folau is the fullback for a very disappointing Waratahs team, as well as a very disappointing Wallabies team. So at least it was keeping in character that he made a very disappointing tweet last night regarding marriage equality in Australia.

Northampton add Springbok to replace Picamoles

Northampton Saints’ reinvigoration of their playing squad after a lacklustre 2016/17 season continued at pace today, as the club announced the signing of South African openside flanker Heinrich Brüssow.

Two Leinster players sent home from South Africa

Two Leinster players have been stopped - at least temporarily - from entering South Africa in order to compete in this weekend's Pro14 clash.

Three times the Top14 flicked the 'unmissable' switch in Round 3

Three rounds in, the Top 14 is emerging as one of rugby’s most competitive and exciting leagues.

Five years on from his tragic death, Ulster release poignant Nevin Spence documentary

On 15th September 2012, Ulster Rugby player Nevin Spence tragically passed away along with his father Noel and brother Graham.

Ruggamatrix Podcast Episode 254

The boys talk a bit of All Blacks, specifically whether Beauden Barrett is still the man for the job at 10.

VIDEO: Brayden Ennor is officially good at scoring tries

Canterbury flyer Braydon Ennor crosses for four tries in his team's Ranfurly Shield defence against Southland in round 4 of the Mitre 10 Cup.
The All Blacks U20s standout is proving every bit as adept at senior level as he did earlier in the year when earning national honours.

Toulon add three to their summer shopping list

It was never going to take long into the season for perennial big spenders Toulon to be linked with a new batch of recruits.

Chiefs prop 'set for Stade Francais move'

Tongan Siegfried Fisi'ihoi is set to join Top 14 outift Stade Francais, subject to passing a medical, according to reports in the French press

Fantasy Rugger: Round Three Top Performers

Week three of the Rugby Championship saw the All Blacks getting pushed (for a while at least) by the Pumas, then the Wallabies battling out a draw with the Springboks.

Being there for Vaea Fifita’s two biggest highlights

Last year Vaea Fifita hurdled clean over a player in a provincial game. On Saturday night he shook the rugby world with a barnstorming 40 metre run in for a try. Jamie Wall was there to see both.

Johan Goosen could return to top-flight rugby ... in Pro 14: reports

A mystery benefactor has offered to buy 'retired' South African star Goosen out of his five-year deal at Racing 92 for €1.5million

NZ Schoolgirl delivers cracking textbook dump tackle

New Zealand schoolgirl rugby is just as physical as the boys, as this Fekitoa-like rush tackle proves. The Hamilton Girls midfielder makes a great read and puts her opposite into the turf during the national semi final clash over the weekend.

Powerhouse centre Robbie Fruean wasted little time showing what he could bring to Edinburgh table, picking up his first try for the Scottish Pro14 side.

Ryan head impact incident mars East Midlands derby

Northampton Saints secured the headlines on Saturday as they beat Leicester Tigers, 24-11, and emerged victorious from the East Midlands derby, but it was a fixture which may be better remembered for an incident involving flanker Dominic Ryan.

VIDEO: Augustin Creevy uses Israel Dagg like a door mat

Sometimes in life you are the hammer, and sometimes you are the nail.

MITRE 10 CUP ROUNDUP - Three kickers combine for 79 points [VIDEO]

Things were looking good on Friday night for Southland at halftime. The underdogs (so much so that the TAB had suspended betting on the game) were level 17-all with Ranfurly Shield holders Canterbury, and could sniff a famous victory.

Dylan Hartley's reign as England captain could be about to end

After a busy international summer that saw England take a largely developmental squad down to Argentina and record a 2-0 series victory, as well as 15 prominent players play vital roles in the British and Irish Lions’ series draw in New Zealand, the England captaincy is once again up for

LIVE GAME - All Blacks v Pumas

Join us live from New Plymouth for the third round of the Rugby Championship! Follow all the action, stats and commentary in our Live Match Centre here.

LIVE GAME - Wallabies v Springboks

We’re live from Perth for the third round of the Rugby Championship! Follow all the action, stats and commentary in our Live Match Centre here.

Early in Vaea Fifita's career there was a question mark over whether he should be a backrower or a winger, and you can see why based on the try he scores against the Pumas.

All Blacks 39 Pumas 22 - IMMEDIATE REACTION

First thoughts of an up and down test match in New Plymouth between the All Blacks and Pumas.

VIDEO: Watch Vaea Fifita's break-out performance for the All Blacks

WATCH: Zero evidence of improvement from Pumas

'Coming down a level' - that's how Scotty Stevenson has described what the All Blacks are doing this weekend against Los Pumas.

No fuss, no drama Luke Romano has earned his spot in the All Blacks XV this weekend

The All Blacks have chosen to share the love in the selection this weekend – that’s good news for one man who continues to graft away in the background, and would be just as happy hunting pigs in the Canterbury high country, writes Scotty Stevenson.

Watch: Julian Savea scores Wellington's opening try with first touch of the game

He mightn't be playing for the All Blacks at the weekend but that doesn't mean Savea has taken his foot off the pedal.

Look who's backing France's 2023 Rugby World Cup bid

Dan Carter has emerged as France's not-very-secret weapon in its bid to win the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

FOOTAGE: Player (18) banned for 10 years for sickening attack on referee

An 18-year-old Australian rugby player has been banned for 10 years for attacking a referee. The sickening incident occurred during the Newcastle and Hunter Rugby Union U19s Grand Final.

An independent report into New Zealand Rugby has found that the sport has to confront issues surrounding sexism, violence, alcohol consumption, attitudes to homosexuality and a culture of entitlement if it wants to remain relevant in a modern New Zealand.

OPINION: Can Dan Biggar really save Northampton Saints?

Earlier this week it was announced that Dan Biggar would be leaving Ospreys, and making the trek to Northampton Saints.
But is Dan Biggar the saviour the Saints need right now? Dan Johannsson takes a closer look.

Scarlets suffer backrow injury blow

Scarlets have today confirmed that flanker James Davies will undergo surgery on his shoulder tomorrow, Friday 8th September.

The weekend preview with Marty and Jamie

Radio Sport NZ's Martin Devlin and Rugby Pass's Jamie Wall give their thoughts on a big weekend of test match rugby in Australia and New Zealand.

PODCAST: Ruggamatrix episode 253

Are the Wallabies too sensitive to criticism? The Rugby Championship resumes - will the All Blacks thrash Los Pumas, can the Wallabies stop South Africa's winning run

WATCH: Details emerge about Perth's breakaway rugby competition

According to Brett McKay on The Short Ball, plans have advanced to a stage where the Force will be apparently playing an international side in the near future.

Wallabies v Boks: the biggest test match of the year

They couldn’t have scripted this one better. This weekend sees the Wallabies and Springboks face off in a test that, for both sides, has a ton riding on it.

WATCH: Kieran Read speaks at the All Blacks captain's run

Jamie Wall was at Yarrow Stadium in New Plymouth ahead of tomorrow night's test between the All Blacks and Pumas.

There’s nothing like a bit of light relief after suffering the embarrassment of your worst Premiership defeat for over a decade and conceding more tries than you have in any other top flight league game.

French international set to play his first Top 14 game in four years

The Top14 is about to see a return of a one of the national team's most outstanding athletes - writes James Harrington.

Watch: An absolutely enormous 22 metre drop-out was kicked in New Zealand today

It's very rare that a twenty two drop out makes the highlight reel but this one deserves a it's place in the pantheon of greatest ever twenty two dropouts, if indeed one exists.

All Blacks v Pumas - What do the numbers say?

Argentina have made little to no progress since joining The Rugby Championship and a brief glance at the stats will leave you in no doubt as to how this one will play out. The Pumas will lose, and lose handsomely.

Wallabies v Springboks - What do the numbers say?

A resurgent Springboks side face an improved Wallabies outfit this weekend in Perth, a once burgeoning rugby city that now lies mostly in ruins. But what do the numbers say?

Watch Ratuva Tavuyara find space down the right wing, casually step back inside and execute a jaw dropping over the shoulder no-look pass to Loni Uhila.

From viral sensation to bottom of the ladder: The next chapter in the Tyrese Johnson-Fisher story

At the U18 level, dedicated fans may know of a handful of players coming through at their club, province or region, but their knowledge of talents from other teams or nations is minimal. This is the beginning of the spotlight-shining process.

CONFIRMED: WRU release statement as Dan Biggar confirms Ospreys exit

The WRU and the Ospreys have described as 'disappointing' Dan Biggar's decision to leave the region.
Northampton Saints have this lunchtime confirmed that Dan Biggar has signed a contract to join the East Midlands club in the summer of 2018.

One of the behind-the-scenes highlights of the British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand were the occasional unofficial social media updates featuring England and Wasps backrow James Haskell and Ireland and Leinster backrow Sean 'The Tullow Tank' O'Brien.

LISTEN: Zero evidence of improvement from Pumas

'Coming down a level' - that's how Scotty Stevenson has described what the All Blacks are doing this weekend against Los Pumas.

Toulon hatch bizarre plan concerning powerhouse Tuisova's on field position

Should he stay or should he go?
The Fijian Olympic Sevens champion has has touched down 24 times in 66 outings since joining the club at the start of the 2013/14 season.

BREAKING: Bath headcoach to leave club just 2 weeks into season

Bath Rugby has confirmed that Tabai Matson is leaving his position as Head Coach to return to New Zealand due to family reasons.
Matson has played a crucial role in the Club’s pre-season preparations.

VIDEO: David Flatman picks his Premiership Round 1 'Flats XV'

David Flatman picks his XV from the first round of the 2017-18 Aviva Premiership Rugby season.

The Rugby Pod - Season 2

After last week's drama, we have a full house as Goodey is out on bail. The lads are joined by ex-Sarries prop, Petrus du Plessis, fresh from his winning debut for London Irish in Twickenham. Jim tells us how he's settling into showbiz life and Goodey shares two bits of great news. Lots more including the usual 'Tweet Roulette' and a round up of the Goode, The Bad and the

MITRE 10 CUP ROUNDUP: Thrilling finishes, Auckland hit rock bottom

If there's one thing worse than losing a local derby, it's getting your rear end handed to you in one. On Sunday afternoon Auckland found that one out the hard way.

INJURY UPDATE: All Blacks lose key players

The All Blacks received some bad injury news in the lead up to Saturday night's test against Argentina in New Plymouth.

Worcester Warriors have released a statement after it emerged that the club could be sold amid ongoing financial troubles.
Following recent reports regarding the future of the Club, Warriors Chairman Bill Bolsover has released this statement.

Rhys Webb 'on sale' in England and France: reports

French media reports claim that Rhys Webb is looking for a new club in England or France when his contract at Pro 14 side Ospreys ends next year

Speculation mounts over Ben Te'o's future at Worcester

Recent reports that Bath were interested in buying out the remainder of Ben Te’o’s contract at Worcester Warriors and bringing him to the club immediately were given fresh impetus this weekend.

PODCAST: Leaguel Counsel Episode 19

Go and put your mortgage on it - the Storm will win the 2017 NRL Grand Final.

VIDEO: A brief on-field moment which sums up Dan Carter as a person

Like any sport, rugby has its heroes and its villains.
Dan Carter definitively lies in the former camp, and a brief incident towards the end of Racing 92's match with Agen yesterday exemplified this.

VIDEO: Southern Kings score their first try as a Pro14 side... and it was fast

The Southern Kings shipped a big scoreline in their debut Pro14 match against competition Champions Scarlets.

WATCH: Alex Lozowski makes his England case

REPORTS: Financially troubled Worcester Warriors could be sold

Reports this morning have revealed that Premiership side Worcester Warriors are poised to be put up for sale.

VIDEO: Tuilagi scores for Leicester on return from injury

It's his first competitive game since last year and it's safe to say Manu Tuilagi is back! We know the previous line has been used about 20 times in the last three years but this time we mean it.

WATCH: New Zealand claim unprecedented feat over the rest of the rugby world

From the 'news that will surprise absolutely nobody' file, New Zealand are the most dominant nation in the rugby world.
However, it's now official.

Highlights: Gloucester vs Exeter Chiefs

Exeter Chiefs began their Premiership title defence with a defeat as a last-gasp try from Jason Woodward gave Gloucester a 28-21 win on Friday, ending the champions’ 17-match unbeaten run in thrilling fashion.

The Bristol team to face Championship side Hartpury RFC will leave your jaw on the floor

Big money Championship side Bristol have selected a star studded XV to face Hartpury in the first match of their Greene King IPA Championship opener versus Hartpury on tomorrow.

VIDEO: Cheetahs score historic first Pro14 try

While the Cheetahs were treated to a baptism of fire of sorts against Ulster in their Pro14 debut, they did play so properly good rugby.

REPORT: After strong start, Kings bow to eight try Scarlets

After a promising start - the Kings held a 7-5 lead at the end of the first quarter and trailed just 10-15 at the half-time break - the Scarlets took control in the second half and scored 42 unanswered points to take the match away from the visitors.

The Battle of the Bridge is a provincial rugby rivalry worth reviving

It should be New Zealand provincial rugby’s greatest rivalry, but the Battle of the Bridge barely rates a mention on the list of great contests. Is 2017 the year to change all that? Scotty Stevenson certainly hopes so.

VIDEO: 5 Young Premiership Players Who Will Do Well This Year

STATS: Some insane nerd stats and infographics around this year's Aviva Premiership

VIDEO: Keelan Giles is staying in Wales

The 19-year old has been rewarded with a contract running until the summer of 2020 following a breakthrough season at his home region. Having come to public attention with Wales U20s last spring, he made his Ospreys bow at the start of last season, scoring a try on his debut off the bench in a 64-10 win over Benetton Treviso at the Liberty Stadium.

REPORT: Cheetahs get Pro14 baptism of fire

South African pro14 newcommers Cheetahs were welcomed with a shocking 19-42 defeat to Ulster in a historic fixture at the Kingspan Stadium.
The Cheetahs, one of two new South African outfits that have joined the championship, put on a gutsy display as they made their PRO14 bow in Belfast but were unable to withstand the men in white.

One year on: Losi Filipo’s chance at redemption isn’t just for him

2016 was a shocker for New Zealand rugby off the field. A run of player scandals saw the game's image take a battering, but Jamie Wall watched one of them make an inauspicious appearance in the Mitre 10 Cup last night.

PRO14 Preview: A Team by Team Analysis

Brad Shields may have already found an Aviva Premiership side

Speculation is mounting that Hurricanes backrow Brad Shields may have already penned a deal with an Aviva Premiership side.
Earlier this week it was widely reported that the English qualified Shields was looking to make the move to the Premiership after he was not involved with the wider All Blacks Rugby Championship squad.

After Eddie Jones phonecall, Carl Fearns wants to play for France...but there's a hitch

Liverpudlian in Lyon Carl Fearns has set his sights on playing international rugby for France following a telephone conversation with England boss Eddie Jones - but will have to wait longer than he was expecting to don Les Bleus' jersey.

Ruggamatrix Episode 252 - Are the Wallabies back?

The Wallabies pushed the All Blacks to the brink restoring pride in the gold jersey, but in the end the Wallabies have lost another Bledisloe series. So does coach Cheika deserve a reprieve?

All Blacks 35 Wallabies 29 - IMMEDIATE REACTION

Here's the first thoughts from a pulsating test match in Dunedin, in which the All Blacks only just retained the Bledisloe Cup.

HIGHLIGHTS: New Zealand vs Australia

Beauden Barrett broke Australia hearts with a last-gasp try as New Zealand retained the Bledisloe Cup by winning a thriller 35-29 at the Forsyth Barr Stadium on Saturday.

FOOTAGE: Does Dane Coles get away with smashing Ned Hanigan in the face?

While the All Blacks Wallabies Bledisloe 2 is undoubtedly an instant modern classic, it had it's fair share of niggle.

VIDEO: Cheika gives brutally frank assessment of Retallick incident

A frustrated Michael Cheika has responded to questions regarding the officiating of the game, suggesting that Ned Hanigan is lucky not have sustained a serious neck injury.
The Wallaby's head-coach prefaced his answer by saying: "I've to thread lightly here my friend."

Some people are NOT happy with the Boks' new look

The Springboks wore their new change kit today in their victory over the Pumas in Salta - and the reaction to the all red outfit has been mixed to say the least.

REPORTS: Lambie requests release from Springbok contract

Reports from South Africa this weekend suggest flyhalf Pat Lambie has requested a release from his South African joint contract.
According to Netwerk 24 Lambie wants permission to leave his contract in order to play for Racing 92 in Paris. It’s understood that Racing want him in Paris as soon as possible.

VIDEO: Chris Ashton scores two on Top14 debut for Toulon

Chris Ashton has scored his first - and indeed his second - Top 14 try for French giants Toulon.
The former England ace put in a fine performance for his new club against All Black laden rivals Pau.

Fantasy Rugger: Round Two Top Performers

In case you've been living under a rock for the last few years, you'll know that Beauden Barrett is a damn good player. However, just as a little reminder, he made his mark on Fantasy Rugger with a whopping 27.6 points to be the highest scoring player of the weekend.

The easiest way to raise the profile of women's rugby

The Black Ferns won the World Cup yesterday, beating England 42-31 in a highly entertaining advertisement for women’s rugby. Not only did it spark not only celebrations of their unprecedented fifth RWC win, it also brought up the age old arguments of funding and support for minor sports in this country.
Minor sports being everything that isn’t men’s rugby, America’s Cup yachting, cricket and, God knows why, the Warriors.

UPDATE: All Blacks release 9 players for Mitre 10 Cup

The All Blacks have released nine players from their squad for this weekend's upcoming National Provincial Championship matches.

Pumas lock Tomas Lavanini escaped further sanction after he received two yellow cards in his side's loss to South Africa in Salta.

Irish rugby mourns sudden death of Willie Duggan at 69

The sudden death of former Leinster, Ireland and British & Irish Lions player Willie Duggan this morning.
The news was made public by Leinster Rugby via Twitter.

So...Carl Hayman is coming out of retirement

Former All Black Carl Hayman has agreed to come out of retirement to play in the French Federale 3 - the fifth, and very firmly amateur, tier of French rugby.

Richard Cockerill has chosen his first Edinburgh captain and he's a beast

Richard Cockerill has named his first Edinburgh captain and he's gone for 6'4. 113kg backrow powerhouse.
Magnus Bradbury, 22, will captain the side for the 2017/18 season.

PODCAST: The Short Ball with Scotty & Mils

This week Scotty & Mils make a crayfish dinner wager as they look ahead to this week's Mitre10 Cup fixtures. They also discuss the Black Ferns' stunning win at the World Cup and the future of New Zealand women's rugby.

VIDEO: Mils Muliaina blasts Nigel Owens over Bledisloe 2 performance

All Blacks centurion Mils Muliaina has torn into Nigel Owen for his performance in the second Bledisloe match in Dunedin over the weekend.

Actually how successful was the Women's Rugby World Cup?

This weekend, a thrilling contest saw New Zealand overcome reigning champions England to win the Women’s World Cup. The climactic showpiece served as a fantastic finale to what many are calling the best edition of the tournament ever held. But just how successful was it?

Mystery surrounds who exactly Saints have signed to replace Picamoles

Northampton Saints have confirmed that they have found Louis Picamoles replacement, but they haven't revealed who.

Best confirmed as Ulster captain

Director of Rugby Les Kiss has today announced that Rory Best will lead Ulster during the 2017/18 season. Best, who has played 198 times for his home Province, returns to a position that he first held from 2007 to 2011.

Western Force Backer Alleges ARU Conspiracy

RENTAL

RENTAL

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Learn to Pass off the Wrong Foot - Wayne Smith

20 min • sport • 2014

Catching and passing is the most basic of rugby skills. 2 time World Cup winning coach, Wayne Smith shows us how to train it well.

Richie McCaw
"Series 1"

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